Cold Feet star receives academic fellowship

10 July 2017

John Thomson delighted to accept UCLan Honorary Fellowship

A famous television actor has taken to the stage today but in a different role as he received an honorary award from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

John Thomson, known to millions as Pete Gifford in ITV’s Cold Feet, received an Honorary Fellowship to acknowledge the significant contribution he has made to the performance industry, as a talented actor.

The 48-year-old, who was brought up in nearby New Longton, said: “I am honoured and delighted to accept this Honorary Fellowship; I can’t believe it and actually feel rather overwhelmed.

“I think the key to career success is to love what you do and enjoy your job as much as possible.  I relish what I do and am eternally grateful for that. It’s also important to learn from failure as well as success and always strive to do better.”

"I am honoured and delighted to accept this Honorary Fellowship; I can’t believe it and actually feel rather overwhelmed."

The former All Hallows Catholic High School and Runshaw College student has worked in the entertainment industry for 30 years. In his address to the new graduates he praised the strong amateur dramatics movement in Preston, where he started his acting career.

During his career he has graced the television screens in top comedy and drama shows including The Fast Show, Spitting Image, Coronation Street and Men Behaving Badly. He has also performed in award-winning theatre productions and has voiced many animated characters.

John, who addressed a packed out audience in Preston’s Guild Hall, said: “My advice to students is to believe in yourself and your talent.  Always be nice and personable and appreciate the support you receive from the people who respect your work.”

Among the University’s other new honorary fellows are by 808 State founding member Graham Massey, Preston born Michelin starred chef Michael Wignall and Oscar winner Mark Crabtree OBE.