Bill Bryson will become Durham University's 11th chancellor

Bryson is to become the 11th chancellor and formal head of the university, following the death of Sir Peter Ustinov in March 2004.

The US-born journalist and author has lived for many years in England and became famous for his book, Notes from a Small Island.

In 2004 he received an honorary Doctor of Civil Law degree at the university.

In the same year he won the 2004 Royal Society Aventis Prize for science writing with his encyclopaedic work "A Short History of Nearly Everything".

'Great honour'

His Notes from a Small Island sang the praises of the city of Durham.

The chancellor's most public role is in conferring degrees at university ceremonies, but can also involve representing the public face of the university.

Vice-Chancellor Sir Kenneth Calman, said: "This is a wonderful cause for celebration. We are absolutely delighted that Bill Bryson has accepted our invitation to be chancellor.

"He is a man whose values and vision have so much in common with our own students, staff and graduates.

Mr Bryson said: "I could ask for no greater honour. I hope it goes without saying that I will do my utmost to serve the university with credit."