Dragon's Den's Doug Richard is next Teesside University chancellor

Doug Richard appeared in the first two series of Dragon's Den

One of the original members of Dragon's Den will be the next chancellor of Teesside University.

Doug Richard will take over from Lord Sawyer of Darlington who has been chancellor since 2005.

The businessman appeared in the first two series of the BBC show and has also been an adviser to the government.

"I hope to use my experience and expertise to build on the fantastic work that has gone before." Mr Richard said.

"Teesside is a business-facing university with a real focus on innovation, commercialisation and entrepreneurship.

"The progress it has made in recent years and the continual investment in new facilities and buildings make it an exciting proposition for students and business partners."

Lord Sawyer said: "The years I have spent as chancellor of Teesside University have been some of the most rewarding of my career.

"I am sure that Doug Richard will be an outstanding chancellor.

"He is influential and well known as an active business leader and successful entrepreneur."

Mr Richard is expected to start in his new role early next year.