A university is set to bestow its highest honour upon a regional daily editor.

Staffordshire University will present an honorary degree to Martin Tideswell, left, who edits Stoke-on-Trent daily The Sentinel.

The university says the award recognises Martin’s public role in “celebrating North Staffordshire and its people and for partnering with the university on initiatives that help inspire people about their futures including Our Big Read and Too Write”.

It also recognises his role as a media professional and as a provider of work experience and employment opportunities to Staffordshire University students. Martin will receive the honour on Thursday 11 July.

He told HTFP: “I’m extremely humbled to be considered for this honour by my city’s university.

“I’ve been a journalist for almost 30 years and more than 20 of those have been spent in seven different roles at my home city newspaper where I now have the honour of being the editor and leading a fantastic, dedicated team who do wonderful work day-in, day out – both in print and online.

“The job is a privilege and, in this age of fake news, algorithms which dictate what people read and an industry that is extremely challenged I believe we’ve never needed local journalism more.

“As well as chronicling local life we endeavour to make a positive difference to people here in the Potteries every day.”

Professor Liz Barnes, the university’s vice-chancellor, said: “Our awards ceremonies are celebrations of achievement that our graduates, their families and friends will remember for the rest of their lives.

“They are made all the more special by the awarding of honorary degrees to inspirational people who share in the University’s values and who help us to drive up education and skills.

“We are delighted to be connected with people who play a crucial role in talking up our City, our region and its people and who deserve the honour for the tremendous work they do.”