Honorary Fellows

Former Myerscough College and University Centre football student, Will Still, became the youngest Head Coach in any of Europe’s top leagues, when he took charge at Stade de Reims, in French Ligue 1, at the age of just 30, in October 2022.

Farmer and entrepreneur Olly Harrison is the face behind his own popular YouTube channel.

Olly's online presence reaches over 350,000 across his social channels, 110,000 of which are on YouTube. His 1500+ videos have been watched over 77 million times, where he shares insights, experiences, and challenges faced in the agricultural industry.

From his humble beginnings growing up playing golf after school with his mum, to passing over two million subscribers on YouTube, former Myerscough student Rick knows what it takes to drive the game forward and reach millions of golfers across the globe.

Sharon, who was President of the Institute of Chartered Foresters until April 2023, is also a Chartered Arboriculturist and Fellow of the Institute, with experience in local government and contracting.

Allan Foster is the current Chair of the Myerscough College Corporation. Allan spent 35 years in universities – Sheffield Hallam, University of Central Lancashire, University of Manchester and, finally, at Keele University until he retired in 2005. He subsequently has been a consultant to a variety of companies and educational institutions globally. 

From Myerscough sportsturf apprentice to Real Madrid's Director of Grounds, Paul Burgess is one of the biggest and most respected names in the industry. His dedication has led to him winning five Premier League Groundsman of the Year and Institute of Groundsman/Turf Professional Awards.

Mark is the CEO of Mere Plantations. Mark has a wealth of experience in numerous sectors including plantation development and management, business services and marketing. To date Mark has developed and managed several thousand acres of hardwood plantations in Africa.

Ben is an international event rider and European champion. Ben became the British National Eventing Champion at Gatcombe Park in August 2019, and he now runs his own business Shadow Sport Horse Ltd, producing and selling horses and has an exciting string of horses for the season ahead.

Elected as President of the National Farmers' Union in 2018, Minette is the first woman to lead the NFU since its formation in 1908. Growing up on a farming background, she runs a tenanted family farm in Wiltshire. Minette co-founded the campaigning initiatives 'Ladies in Beef' and the 'Great British Beef Week'

A former teacher, Brian is known for his successful career in Rugby Union as both player and coach. He has coached England at all levels, winning the 2003 World Cup as Assistant Coach and finishing runners up as Head Coach in 2007. Despite his vast experience, he recently stated he's starting "becoming a coach."

John is the founder of Legend Fires, a business specialising in gas appliances. Legend Fires has been the headline sponsor of the North West Rally Stages since 2004. John rallies in competitions with his son, Alex, born with Downs Syndrome, and promotes the activities of those with the condition on his Facebook page.

Former Chief Executive & Prinicpal of Myerscough College between 2006 and 2018, Ann was brought up on a farm in East Anglia and lectured at Newcastle University, before joining the College as Finance Director in 1998. Her tenure as Principal oversaw a period of enormous campus development and quality improvement at the College.

A former horticulture student, Bill is the founder and Director of Continental Landscapes - a hugely successful landscaping business, winning RoSPA Awards Gold in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. Bill was recognised by the College for his outstanding contribution to the field of Landscape and Horticulture.

Project Officer for the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, David was awarded for his outstanding achievements in field-based conservation, particularly Scottish wildcats.

Former Chairman of Myerscough College, Ian was awarded by the College for his incredible dedication to a considerable number of charities and Christian ventures, including Preston and South Ribble Street Pastors, Victim Support St. John Ambulance, and as a Trustee of Together Lancashire. 

For 25 years Neil, has been an Ambassador for the charity 'Send a Cow', which works with marginalised community groups building a vision for a better future for farming. His Honorary Fellowship recognised his achievements in agriculture, particularly his innovative practices within the dairy and beef sectors. 

John and Danielle have built several successful businesses together, including the founding of Radio Wave, but it's their phenomenal charitable activity in Lancashire which has led to receiving their Fellowship. In 2000, John was awarded an MBE for services to radio and in 2007, he was appointed High Sheriff of Lancashire.

The Morecambe Missile, John McGuinness is one of the UK’s greatest motorcycle racers and with 23 wins is the second-most successful Isle of Man TT racer ever. John attended the ceremony for his outstanding achievements despite recovering from serious injuries sustained in a motorcycle crash.

Paul serves as Director of The Mersey Forest, a network of woodlands and green spaces across Cheshire and Merseyside. Since 1991 they’ve helped plant more than nine million trees. He was recognised for his work in securing the long term future of woodlands and wildlife for the benefit of future generations.

General manager of Glendale Liverpool Ltd, a partnership responsible for the maintenance of Liverpool's 10 million square metres of green space, Peter was awarded for his contribution to the training of the young people of Merseyside and the formation of the Myerscough Glendale Apprenticeship Partnership.

Awarded for his considerable achievements in farriery, Simon has been a practicing farrier for 45 years. Lecturing farriery around the world, he is a Fellow of the Worshipful Company of Farriers and has been inducted into the International Farriers Hall of Fame at the Kentucky Derby Museum. 

After a brain hemorrhage in 2008 limited his mobility to a wheelchair, Adrian rebuilt his life to become a gold-winning medalist of the Great Britain Fencing Squad. An ambassador of several disability charities, Adrian's Honorary Fellowship recognised his sporting achievements and charitable work.

Senior Advisor in Policy Development at the International Fund for Animal Welfare, Cynthia has overseen significant animal welfare, including reforming UK laws to protect wildlife from unethical hunting practices and led the ban on leghold traps in California.

Director of Bespoke Outdoor Spaces, Jody is an award-winning garden designer and landscape. Jody's Fellowship was in recognition of his outstanding achievements in landscaping and garden design and the training of future generations of landscapers.

Among of the most highly-respected authorities of equine veterinary science in the world, most notably in the field of equine orthopaedics, Peter was awarded his Honorary Fellowship for his invaluable support to Myerscough College as a member of the Research Advisory Committee.

A former student, Lee has been long associated with looking after the pitches of Manchester City Football Club, from Groundsman at Maine Road to Head Groundsman at the Etihad Stadium. He was awarded his Honorary Fellowship for his outstanding career and contribution to the Sportsturf industry.

Former Technical Manager for Bentley Motorsport, Leena is not only the first female race engineer to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, but has achieved an this astonishing feat three times with Audi Sport Team Joest. Her Fellowship in is recognition of her outstanding achievements in the field of motorsports engineering.

With a career spanning Italy, France, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Cyprus as well as his hometown of Manchester, Mike is a hugely experienced figure in British and European basketball. Not only was he awarded his Fellowship for his services to British basketball, Mike also joined Myerscough's basketball coaching staff in 2015.

Tamara and her family run Molescroft Farm in East Yorkshire. Hosting various nursery, school and community activities, the College recognised Tamara for her outstanding achievements in agriculture and work in educating people, notably school children, about farming and food.

Professional zoologist and academic, Andrew is known for his conservation works in primarily Central America and for being a senior advisor on the award-winning BBC series Planet Earth. Andrew's award was for his achievements in the field of Herpetology, along with his support of Animal Studies at Myerscough.

A promising footballer for Sunderland AFC, a rare blood condition tragically cut Kieron's promising career short at just 22. Since then he has dedicated himself to tackling racism and homophobia in football. His Honorary Fellowship was for his significant work in the promotion of equality and diversity, particularly in football.

Among the first people in the education sector to recognise the importance of using computers in schools during the 1980's, Myerscough awarded her Honrary Fellowship for her outstanding career in the use of pioneering technology.

An arboriculture alumni at Myerscough College, Stephen can be heard presenting the BBC Radio Lancashire show Lancashire Outdoors, broadcasting from different rural locations on countryside issues. He was awarded for his contribution in supporting the rural communities of Lancashire.

David's Honorary Fellowship was for his outstanding achievements in the horticulture and research sector and his valuable support of the Research Advisory Committee at Myerscough College.

Preston-born entrepreneur, John's first venture was setting up a small caravan park on his family’s farm in Westmorland as a teenager. From then, he grew his business into what is now known as the Pure Leisure Group, one of the highest-profile caravan and holiday lodge companies in the country.

After his business, Ainscough Crane Hire Ltd, became the largest crane hire firm in the UK, Martin sold the company and founded the Ainscough Group, overseeing a diverse range of business interests in property, leisure and industrial sectors. Martin's charitable activities led to him receiving the CBE in 2016.

Former Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), Alan was recognised with an Honorary Fellowship for his significant work for the development of Higher Education in the North West and establishing and supporting the successful partnership between Myerscough College and UCLan.

After training in business, Jean moved on to studying in veterinary nursing in 1971, working her way up as a senior examiner and teaching vet nurses, eventually taking on the responsibilities of managing a small animal veterinary hospital. Jean also served the British Veterinary Nursing Association Council for 16 years.

As a presenter on BBC Radio Lancashire since 1996, Sally is a familiar voice for many in the county with her mid-morning weekday show. However it is her support for charities fighting against cancer, having been a breast cancer survivor herself, that was recognised by her Fellowship.

Among the greatest all-rounders of English cricket, Preston-born Flintoff has enjoyed a stellar career at international and county level, most noted for his outstanding contribution to England reclaiming the Ashes in 2005. Following retirement he remains a well-known public figure through his media and charity work.

A former student at Myerscough College's predecessor, the Lancashire College of Agriculture, Christine worked at Kew Gardens before entering the public eye as a presenter of BBC's Gardeners' World. She continues broadcasting about horticulture, notably as the resident gardening expert of The One Show.

Growing up in Ireland on a dairy farm, Mike moved to the United States on a work-based programme before working at Ohio State University as International Programme Manager, specifically in turf grass management. He has played a key role in establishing Myerscough College's ties with the USA.

Rev. Stuart serves as a Chairman and trustee of various operations concerning UK rural communities, overseeing operations such as responding to the needs of farmers during the foot-and-mouth epidemic and the 2002 flooding in Cumbria. His Honorary Fellowship is for his support of the countryside.

Beginning as a gardening apprentice at Southport Council, Alan studied horticulture at Kew Gardens, before joining Bristol Council's parks department, leaving as Director in 1992. Dedicating himself to green space campaiging, his efforts led to over £500 million awarded to hundreds of UK park projects.

Former Chief Executive of the Sports Turf Research Insitute, Gordon oversaw projects at some of the word's biggest sporting events: delivering the equestrian and football grounds of the London 2012 Olympic Games, prepping pitches for 2014 World Cup and consulting The Open Championships' lawns.

Chief Assessor for the British Horse Society, Rob joint owns BHS Ingestre Stables. An equestrian specialist, his work includes training students and producing dressage horses to international level. His Fellowship recognised his dedication to the continued training of students within the equine industry.

Directors of Académica Football Club in Coimbra, Portugal, they were key figures in setting up Myerscough College's partnership with the team, allowing students to train with a club based in the Primeira Liga. Paula was awarded an Honourary MBE for services to education and culture with the British Council.

A trainee at Manchester United as an aspiring footballer, Andy has enjoyed a long career as a senior figure for several public bodies, overseeing sports development in the UK. Andy was also honoured with an OBE for Chairing the North West Steering Group for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

A dedicated public servant, Hazel has been both leader of Lancashire County Council and representative of the Rossendale North constituency as County Councilor, a role held for more than 20 years. The College conferred her Fellowship for her community work with the charity Rossendale Enterprise Anchor Ltd.

As a rally driver, Cumbrian Malcolm won the the British International crown in 1994. He later founded rally team M-Sport, winning the World Rally Championship Drivers' champions in 2017 and 2018 and the Constructors' Championship in 2017. He was awarded an OBE for services to motorsport in 2009.

Introduced as a life peer into the House of Lords in 2012, he has had a venerable background in the field of veterinary parasitology and is an expert in bovine diseases caused by tick infections. Lord Trees' Honorary Fellowship was conferred for his substantial achievements within the veterinary profession.

From a Yorkshire farming community, Ann is the Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and Merseyside, protecting the area's natural heritage. Her Fellowship recognised her substantial contributions within rural communities and involvement in environmental matters.

Former alumni and staff member of the College, Howard served as principal of Bishop Burton College, as well a range of national groups and committees, including the Association of Land-Based Colleges and as a trustee of the Farm Crisis. Howard's Fellowship was for his substantial support for land based education.

Known for his Rugby Union career, Sir Bill's greatest moment was captaining England's 1980 Grand Slam. Following his playing career, he has worked a various positions: MD of his family's textile business, his 14 stint on A Question of Sport and serving as Chairman of the Rugby Football Union from 2012 to 2016.

Professor Dixon is a biological scientist, educator, author, and specialist in soil borne microbes. He was previously President of the Institute of Horticulture, UK delegate to the Council of the International Society of Horticultural Science and member of the Research Board at Myerscough College.

Born in Barton near to where the College stands today, John began his career working in farms and gardens in the local area. His reputation led securing business working on playing fields as J Mallinson (Ormskirk) Ltd, developing high-profile sports venues including Lord's Cricket Ground, the Etihad Stadium and Old Trafford.

The humble 'Preston Plumber' widely regarded as one of the all-time greats of English football, Sir Tom Finney averaged almost a goal every-other game as the outstanding agile left winger for his hometown club Preston North End for 14 years. At international level he was the then-all time record goalscorer for England.

A steadfast custodian of the College, firstly as an Agriculture student in 1953, rising to becoming Principal, retiring in 1997. He established the first concordat with the University of Central Lancashire and established links with many oversees institutions. He received an OBE in 1994 for services to agricultural education.

The Duchy of Lancaster's surveyor of lands, Ian represented HM The Queen with matters affecting the land where Lodge and Lee Farm stand. He was recognised for his association with the work of Myerscough College over many years.

'Mr Blackpool' Jimmy Armfield is an iconic figure of Blackpool Football Club. A one-club man, he was regarded as among the best right-backs world, pioneering the 'attacking fullback' role that is associated with the modern game. He was also a member of England's 1966 World Cup-winning squad.

The son of a farmer, Professor John is the former Chief Executive of the Royal Agricultural Society. Prior to this role, he was Principal of Myerscough College from 1997-2005. His tenure oversaw considerable expansion, with the College becoming the largest of its kind. He received an OBE in 2004 for services to education.

From a farming family, Lord Plumb took over the farm his father had worked in 1940. He was elected as President of the National Farmer's Union in 1970. Working with the then-European Economic Community to improve British agriculture, he was elected President of the European Parliament between 1987-88.

Starting his own veterinary practice in the family garage at Myerscough in 1973, Barry grew it to be among largest in the region. As well as lecturing at Myerscough College for 30 years, Barry was also the official vet for Lancashire Constabulary’s mounted section and President of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Distinguished Professor of Plant Biology and Director of the Centre of Sustainable Agriculture at Lancaster University, Bill's research focuses on crop sustainability for food production, particularly in drought-prone land. His Fellowship recognised his achievements to plant and environmental research.

David served Preston North End for almost 10 years as both player and manager. Under his management, PNE transformed from a struggling League Two side to Championship mainstays. He caught the eye of the Premier League, where he managed Everton for 11 years, Manchester United, Sunderland and West Ham. 

Edwin is the fifth generation of the Booths family to lead the eponymous supermarket chain. Starting as a shopfloor trainee, he held various positions in Booths, becoming Executive Chairman in 1997. A College Patron in 2011, his Fellowship is for his services to the North West food sector.

Bishop of Blackburn from 1989 to 2003, he has always had rural affairs close to his heart. He represented the countryside community of Lancashire as a member of the Rural Task Force during the 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak. His was recognised for his achievements and service to education and the countryside.

A highly-respected figure in the Sportsturf industry, between 1990 until his retirement in 2012, Eddie was the Head Groundsman at the All England Lawn Tennis Club, most notable for hosting the Wimbledon Championships. His Fellowship recognised his services to education and groundsmanship.

Eddie founded his pioneering garden centre, Barton Grange, in site of the family’s hotel in May 1963, near to Myerscough College. In the following decades, Barton Grange expanded to include a landscaping business and The Flower Ball, a entertainment complex, with Eddie's sons now overseeing operations.

A farmer and member of the governors at Myerscough College, Eric's Honorary Fellowship recognised his considerable achievements and service to farming, education and the College.

A Northumberland  farmer and former chair of NFU Mutual, Lord Curry is perhaps best known for chairing the Policy Commission on the Future of Farming and Food, establishing agriculture guidelines for the improvement of farming in the UK following the 2001 outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease. 

A Proud Prestonian, Mark is remembered for his highly successful seven-year spell as defender for Liverpool F.C. in the 1980's, winning, among other honours, five First Division titles and the European Cup. He remains a well-known figure as a pundit and commentator for the BBC's football coverage.

One of the UK's most high-profile horticulturists, Roy started as a trainee at Cambridge University's Botanic Garden before moving to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. He later became a known as a presenter on the BBC's Gardeners’ World. Roy received a CBE in 2014 for services to horticulture and charity.

In 1957 Peter founded PGL Travel. PGL organises holidays and school trip activities for children and young adults, with operations in one of Myerscough College's former centres, Winmarleigh Hall. Peter's Fellowship recognised his achievements in developing adventure breaks for young people.

A stage actor and theater impresario for several decades, it is was his first child's Down Syndrome diagnosis which inspired Lord Rix to dedicate himself to tirelessly campaigning for the rights and support of individuals with disabilities, serving as Chairman of Mencap from 1988 until his death in 2016.

Managing Director of Broadleigh Gardens, where she has grown and and developed bulbs since 1972. Her Honorary Fellowship recognised her considerable achievements and service to horticulture and the keeping of the national collection of hybrid daffodils.

Senior lecturer at Southampton University, Dr Anne is a highly-respected authority on animal behaviour and in the relationship between animals and humans. Her Honorary Fellowship is in recognition of her achievements in animal behaviour and the advancement of the cause of animal welfare.

Awarded an Honorary Fellowship for his considerable work in plant pathology and the promotion of science in schools and the public arena, Professor David is a botanist who served as Master of St. Catharine's College at the University of Cambridge and Director of the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh.

After concluding an 8-year career in rallying, David founded his own rally team, Prodrive, in 1984. Prodrive enjoyed significant success, winning six FIA World Rally titles among other accolades. In 2007, he led a consortium that purchased Aston Martin from Ford, resulting David serving as Chairman until 2013.

Chairman and CEO of Bartlett Tree Experts, based in Connecticut, USA. His Honorary Fellowship recognised his considerable work in the development of arboriculture practice and research both in the US and in the UK.

Geoffrey has earned international acclaim as a show jumper and competitor, representing Great Britain in both the Olympic and FEI World Equestrian Games. In addition, he has promoted both training and teaching of show jumping of the highest standard.

As a five-time winner of The Amateur Championship, Sir Michael is one of the all-time greats of amateur golf. He received his Honorary Fellowship for outstanding contribution to golf both as a player and administrator.

Emeritus Professor of Animal Welfare at Cambridge University, Donald was awarded for his contribution to the study of Animal Welfare both in the United Kingdom and on the international stage.