From two O-levels to inspiring a generation of journalists, the family of Tony Morris, who died two years ago, is set to to receive a posthumous honorary degree today, Tuesday.
The daughters of Granada Reports journalist and presenter, Tony Morris, will be collecting the degree at the University of Salford.
Tony Morris, who was 57, died on August 1, 2020, at Bury Hospice after being diagnosed with kidney cancer a year earlier.
He lived in Ramsbottom, and presented ITV’s Granada Reports for 17 years, becoming a familiar face not only in Bury but in homes, across Televisions screens all over the North West.
Tony’s daughter, Natalie Morris, 33, will be collecting the degree with her sister, Rebecca Morris.
Natalie said: “Dad had two O-levels to his name, that was the extent of his education.
"From that, he made his way through a notoriously tough environment and to receive this achievement is a testament to his character.”
Tony was a "constant source of inspiration for young people", and his outstanding work in journalism has been outlined as just two of the many reasons for the honorary degree.
Natalie said: “My dad was an incredibly humble character and the last person to big himself up so to have a moment and really pause to look at what he achieved and how much he has impacted the people around him will be so special.
“It’s going to be a real honour and so nice to have that recognition.
"He was a huge inspiration not just to his kids but to all young people wanting to break into journalism which was his passion, inspiring the new generation of journalists.”
Tony was a dedicated journalist, helping Granada Reports to become the first regional news programme to win a BAFTA in 2007 and a second in 2013.
Professor Allan Walker, Dean of the School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology, added: “For over 17 years Tony Morris was a familiar face in most living rooms across the North West.
"He was at the forefront of news and contributed greatly to investigative journalism across the region.
“Tony was supportive of the university's journalism students throughout his time at Granada, and particularly since the move to MediaCity.
"He was a constant source of inspiration for our young people and we are delighted that Tony’s family will be present to receive his honorary degree.”
Tony’s daughters have travelled from London and will be accepting the degree at The Lowry Theatre in Salford Quays, alongside the University of Salford's 2022 broadcast journalism graduates.
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