Express & Star

'It's been a privilege to serve' says Bob Warman as he receives honorary doctorate

Former ITV Central journalist Bob Warman donned a cap and graduation robes as he was made an Honorary Doctor of Arts by the University of Wolverhampton.

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Tipping his cap: Bob Warman received an honorary degree from the University of Wolverhampton on Thursday.

The country's longest serving regional news presenter, described by former co-presenter Sameena Ali-Khan as "a living legend", dedicated himself to local journalism for more than 50 years.

Now, the veteran broadcaster has been rewarded for his years of serving the Midlands with an honorary doctorate.

Speaking before his graduation ceremony on Thursday, Bob told the Express & Star: "I'm very honoured. It came as a complete surprise to be nominated and to become a Doctor of Arts at the University of Wolverhampton is a great privilege."

The Walsall-born journalist retired from ITV Central in July of last year, as legions of people across the region tuned in to bid farewell to the respected broadcaster.

The likes of Ozzy Osbourne and Chris Tarrant recorded special messages for Bob, and his face was even beamed onto the large advertising screen at the front of Grand Central, with the message: "We'll miss you!"

Bob Warman getting into his graduation robes as he prepares to be made an Honorary Doctor of Arts by the University of Wolverhampton.
Bob Warman's rgaduation cap is adjusted as he prepares to be made an Honorary Doctor of Arts by the University of Wolverhampton.

However, Bob is loving his retirement, and said: "People do keep saying I must be missing the studio and my colleagues, and of course I do, but I am enjoying retirement.

"I seem to fill the time. People ask how on earth do I fill the time after such a busy working life, but I have no problems with that because I have so much to do.

"I'm able to indulge my hobbies a lot more - I enjoy things like gardening, walking, reading, and until recently, rowing. I also enjoy tatting about. I'm happy to spend hours tatting about."