Bell receives honorary doctorate

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After being awarded an honorary doctorate by Coventry University, Ian Bell said: "It's great to be recognised for my work off the field."

England and Warwickshire batsman Ian Bell has been named an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) by Coventry University in recognition of his contribution to sport and his charity work with Acorns Hospice.

Twenty-nine-year-old Bell, who was born at Coventry’s Walsgrave Hospital, donned his cap and gown today for a service at Coventry Cathedral.

He said: “Having lived in the region throughout my lifetime, it’s a massive honour to be presented with this Honorary Doctor of Business Administration, and I would like to thank everyone at Coventry University for making this presentation today.

“It’s great to be recognised for my work off the field, as well as for my performances with England and Warwickshire. Acorns Hospice does a fantastic job in supporting thousands of children and their families across the Midlands, and I feel very privileged to have been made one of its patrons.

“It’s the nominated charity for my 2011 benefit year with Warwickshire and I’m hoping that the funds raised can make a big influence on the great work that this charity does in the future.”

Bell made his first-class debut in 1999 and played his first Test in 2004, against the West Indies. He is currently ranked fourth in the ICC Test batting rankings after scoring five centuries in the last 12 months, a period which saw him help England to series wins over Australia, Sri Lanka and India, and the team become the world’s number one in Tests.

Professor Madeleine Atkins, vice-chancellor of Coventry University, said: “We are delighted that Ian Bell was able to join us at the award ceremony in Coventry Cathedral to receive his honorary degree.

“Ian’s continued support of Warwickshire County Cricket Club, his subsequent success on the world stage with the England team and his recent work with the Acorns Children’s Hospice in the West Midlands make him an outstanding example not only of British sporting excellence, but of a successful athlete giving something back to his local community.

“It is with great pleasure that we are awarding Ian this honorary degree in recognition of those accomplishments.”

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