A former regional daily editor has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Gloucestershire.
Ian Mean, who was editor of Gloucester daily The Citizen for ten years, is now an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy.
The 66-year-old, who is now content director for the Local World Media Group in Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Dorset, was presented with his degree during the university’s first day of graduation ceremonies this year at The Centaur in Cheltenham.
He said he felt enormously honoured and privileged by the award which he received from Baroness Rennie Fritchie.
“During my time here, I have been interested in promoting the business community of the county and encouraging the development of young people,” said Ian.
“I have tried to be an editor who makes things happen in the community.
“To me it is not all about sitting at a desk and writing – it has been about campaigning, taking up causes, driving campaigns and developing our own people.”
Ian was previously the northern news editor of the Daily Mail and editorial marketing manager of the Daily Mirror, before joining the Citizen.
He is a director of Marketing Gloucester; chairman of the Gloucestershire NHS Organ Donation Committee; and director of the Gloucestershire Community Foundation, as well as honorary vice-president of Gloucestershire College.
University vice-chancellor Stephen Marston described Ian as someone who is proud to be a citizen of Gloucestershire.
“He shows tireless energy in championing the county,” he said.
“He is a role model for committed, passionate journalism, rooted in local affairs, and promoting the well-being of local people.”
He was also a vice-chairman of the former Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Company in Gloucester.
Ian, who is married to Judy and has nine grandchildren, is also a keen Arsenal football and England cricket fan.