(Photo Ede and Ravenscroft)

Prolific book publisher John Sansom was honoured by Bristol University on 22 July when he was awarded a Doctor of Letters honorary degree.

Michael Liversidge, Emeritus Dean of Arts, in delivering the oration at the ceremony said: “The Redcliffe Press (founded by John) rose to local prominence principally, but not exclusively, as a publisher of books about Bristol, its region and the West Country”.

He added: “What has always made Redcliffe Press distinctive has been the way it reflects its creator’s personal passions, and his extraordinary commitment to, and belief in, the books and authors he publishes.  Now it is the University’s turn to add its tribute to a remarkable and distinguished citizen for what he has contributed to learning, the arts and the community.”

The part John played in Bristol life over several decades has previously been recognised by the Bristol Evening Post with its Lifetime Achievement Award, and by the City with the rare civic distinction of a Lord Mayor’s Medal.

As a long-time supporter of The Friends of Bristol Art Gallery, John was Chairman for two spells, the most recent from July 2006 until October 2008.  Durng this latter period, notably John oversaw the 60th celebrations of the founding of The Friends, the introduction of colour to the Bulletin, and the setting-up of this website.  John has also been an active supporter of The Royal West of England Academy, the Bristol Short Story Competition and the Bristol Civic Society.

(This item added 25 July 2011)