FORMER Sunderland AFC chairman Sir Bob Murray became the chancellor of his old university yesterday.

The businessman takes the role at Leeds Metropolitan University, which has been vacant since Great North Run founder Brendan Foster stepped down from the position.

Sir Bob said: “I feel very privileged to have been invited to become the chancellor of such an esteemed institution as Leeds Metropolitan University, and was thrilled to accept. It is a highly-respected university that plays such an important role in developing the potential and talent of thousands of students from many different parts of the world.

“As a former graduate, and as someone who has worked in Yorkshire for more than 40 years, it will be a great honour to take on such a leading role with the university. I hope my experience and track record in business, lifelong focus on education, and passion for sport will give me the necessary qualities to support the university, its outstanding staff and the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals to achieve their ambitious and exciting aspirations.”

Sir Bob has been a leading business figure in Yorkshire for the last 43 years but is probably best known for his chairmanship of Sunderland AFC during which he developed the Stadium of Light.