University pays tribute to Lord Bilston

‌Lord Bilston, the former Wolverhampton MP Dennis Turner, died last night. He had been suffering from cancer.

He served as Labour MP for Wolverhampton South East from 1987 to 2005 and was later made a peer. He previously served as a councillor on Wolverhampton City Council for many years.

He was awarded an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Letters by the University in 2006 in recognition of his distinguished service to the people of Wolverhampton.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, said: “Dennis was a great friend of the University over many years. His personal contribution to our development was immense.

“He was also a campaigner for Fairtrade and against injustice and poverty. He was Chair of the Wolverhampton City Fairtrade Partnership and was instrumental in seeing Wolverhampton established as a Fairtrade City ten years ago. Wolverhampton is celebrating its Fairtrade Decade this week – and none of this would have been possible without his efforts and support.

“He always made time for staff and students and attended and supported numerous events and always represented us and the city to the full. It is truly a sad loss of a great man to Wolverhampton.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this time.”

Following the news the University is flying its flag above The George Building at the junction of Stafford Street and Wulfruna Street at half-mast for the remainder of the week as a mark of respect.

ENDS

For more information please contact James Allen in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322003.

Date Issued: Wednesday 26 February 2014