Honorary degrees for distinguished pair – University of Reading
04 July 2005
Two leading figures from the worlds of commerce and science will be awarded honorary degrees from the University of Reading when they take part in the summer graduation ceremonies on July 7, 8 and 9. Fashion entrepreneur Linda Bennett and meteorologist Dr David Burridge will join the 2,800 students graduating at the 16 ceremonies taking place over the three days. On Saturday 9 July, Linda Bennett will be awarded a Doctor of Laws. Ms Bennet, a graduate of the University of Reading (Land Management, 1984), is the founder of L K Bennett, one of the country's foremost names in women's fashion. Founded in 1990, L K Bennett now extends to over forty shops nationally and abroad. Best known for her footwear, as well as for clothing and accessories, Linda Bennett has won numerous awards for her contribution to fashion design, and was named Veuve Clicquot Businesswoman of the Year in 2004. She is also patron of the University's Annual Fund. Dr David Burridge will be awarded a Doctor of Science at the summer graduation ceremony on Friday 8 July. Dr Burridge has recently retired after 14 years as Director of the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts. He joined ECMWF at its inception in 1975 and played a crucial role in making this the leading centre in the world for weather forecasts up to 10 days ahead. Amongst his other activities Dr Burridge has been President of the Royal Meteorological Society and Chair of the Scientific Steering Committee for the UK climate modelling programme that is centred in the Department of Meterology. End Notes for editors -A digital image of Linda Bennett is available for media use. For media enquiries, please contact Sue Rayner. T: 0118 378 8005 E: s.j.rayner@reading.ac.uk