Mr Thring received the medal at the annual Chancellor’s Dinner held last week at the University.

The Chancellor’s Medal was introduced in 1994 to reward individuals who have made a valuable contribution to the life and work of the University that is not directly academic in nature. The award is open to any individual who has supported the University and promoted its strategies and development in a significant and dedicated way.

Professor Glynis Breakwell, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, said: “Jeremy’s contribution to the life and work of the University has been truly unique. As Pro-Chancellor, past Chair of Council, and a member of innumerable committees, he has been a staunch supporter of the University for the past two decades. His wisdom and willingness to take calculated risks have guided us towards excellence."

Mr Thring has been a member of the Council of the University since 1992, and was Chairman of Council from 1994 to 2003. He has served as a Pro-Chancellor of the University since 2001, and has served on many of the University’s committees, including the Finance Committee and the Investment Committee. He was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Law in 2003.

Mr Thring said: “I’m honoured that it was considered I deserved the award. The University is so important to Bath and Bath life. I’ve been inspired to get involved by the academic rigour and the quality of the research; the buzz and the drive and determination to deliver university education at the highest level; the University’s wish to improve on outstanding quality and the wonderful people that make it what it is."

Mr Thring is Deputy Lieutenant for Somerset. He is a former Chairman of the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases NHS Trust in Bath and is involved with a number of charities.