BUSINESSMAN John Prior, who set up Thornbury-based Alexandra Workwear, has had his work with youth enterprise recognised through the award of an honorary degree.

Mr Prior has been involved with the Prince's Trust business programme for many years and is the current chairman of the trust's council in the South West. He is also a founder member of the South West Leadership Group.

He has held many senior positions in businesses across the region and is also chairman of the Bristol Drugs Project, a member of the South West Housing Association and a trustee of the Matthew of Bristol Trust, while still being involved in his family's beef farm in Somerset.

Mr Prior was awarded the honorary degree of doctor of education by the University of the West of England at a ceremony held in Bristol Cathedral yesterday (wed july 23).

His wife, Mary, is also an honorary graduate of UWE. They have two children and four grandchildren.