Former Royal Navy boss 'honoured' by university with a degree

Admiral Sir Philip Jones will received an honorary degree form the University of Chester today,

The retired ex-First Sea Lord is to be presented with a doctor of science in recognition of his contribution to the Royal Navy.

The 60-year-old military chief will receive the honorary degree during a ceremony at Chester Cathedral.

Speaking ahead of the presentation, Sir Philip said: ‘I feel deeply honoured to have my achievements, and my links to the area, recognised with the award of an honorary degree by the University of Chester.’

Born in Cheshire and educated at Birkenhead School, he joined the Royal Navy in 1978 and, after completing his officer training, he read for a degree in geography at Mansfield College, Oxford.

Sir Philip was promoted to First Sea Lord – the navy’s most senior military rank - in 2016.

He ended his illustrious 41-year naval career in June.

He is now a trustee of the National Museum of the Royal Navy and of the White Ensign Association.

The retired navy chief has since been named as deputy lieutenant of Hampshire, carrying out duties on behalf of the Queen.

He is also a distinguished fellow at the Royal United Services Institute for defence and security studies.