Brighton alumnus becomes new Children's Laureate

 

Chris, who created the Goth Girl series and a cartoon seagull ‘Professor C Gull’ for the university, is a well-known writer of children’s books and promotes children’s interest in books, reading and writing (www.chrisriddell.co.uk).

Chris graduated from the university in 1984 with a degree in graphic design. He created Professor C Gull as a figurehead for the university’s Widening Participation drive to encourage people from less traditional backgrounds to take up university studies. He visited local schoolchildren to support the project.

Chris said his mission for the next two years was to encourage "drawing every day" and he wants kids to doodle more. He calls it "visual literacy." Chris said school libraries were vital: "School librarians play such an enormous role in bringing children to books they are going to enjoy. It's a magic alchemy when that works."

Sam Davies, the University of Brighton’s Director of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement, said: “We are delighted for Chris and wish him every success as Children’s Laureate. Chris has been a great supporter of the university and a great ambassador. He is extremely talented and the university congratulates him on his latest achievement.”

Wendy Marshall, Head of Student Recruitment and Outreach, said: “The widening participation team is thrilled that Chris has received this well-deserved recognition. Professor C Gull is a wonderful friendly character who has helped lots of primary school pupils engage with the idea of higher education from an early age.”