John Myers receives honorary fellowship

Carlisle-born radio executive John Myers is to receive an honorary fellowship of the University of Cumbria for his outstanding contribution to radio.

He will also become a visiting professor.

John began his broadcasting at BBC Radio Cumbria in 1982. He later became a presenter on Border Television before launching CFM Radio in Carlisle in 1993.

He was also at Red Rose Radio in Lancashire where he hosted the breakfast show on Red Rose Gold when the station launched in 1990.

John told RadioToday.co.uk: “I am absolutely delighted to accept this wonderful honour from the University of Cumbria. To be recognised by my own city and county is very special indeed. I also look forward to spending some time working with the University and its media students.”

He recently denied on Twitter that he has anything to do with the rumoured sale of GMG Radio.

For those adding 2 + 2 and making 5 – can I clarify that me leaving The Radio Academy has nothing to do with the rumoured GMG radio sale. Ta

— John Myers (@johnmyersteam) June 14, 2012

Whilst at Border he launched the Century Radio brand in the North East and North West, before leaving to set up GMG Radio and the three brands of Real Radio, Smooth Radio and Rock Radio.

In 2009, he was asked by the Labour Government to conduct a review of local radio. A number of his recommendations were later taken forward into the Digital Radio Act of 2010.

Two years later he reviewed all of the BBC national popular music radio stations, including BBC Radio 1 and 2. Earlier this year he was commissioned by the BBC to review its local radio services. His report recommended a reduction of the proposed cuts to each respective local service. This was further endorsed by the BBC Trust.

John recently resigned as Chief Executive of The Radio Academy after a successful tenure, but continues to chair and lead a number of media projects.

University of Cumbria Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Strike said: “It is a real pleasure to have John Myers joining our community of Honorary Fellows. His skills as a radio broadcaster are legendary and we are delighted that he has also accepted our invitation to become a Visiting Professor here at the University of Cumbria, working with our media students to develop their skills for the broadcasting industry. They will benefit hugely from the experience and enthusiasm that John brings.”

The presentation will take place at Carlisle Cathedral on Wednesday 18 July.