Speaking today at the Middlesex University Graduation Ceremony, and accepting his award of Doctor of the University honouris causa, conferred on him by Middlesex University, Adrian Wootton OBE, Chief Executive of Film London, said:

“I feel very privileged to be recognised today. My thanks to Middlesex University Vice Chancellor and Faculty of Arts and Creative Industry members, who have granted me this very special honour. I also wanted to say a special thanks to Middlesex University School of Film. While our relationship is nearly 10 years old, the connection between myself, Film London and Middlesex University is very much still flourishing today, as reflected in our partnership in the BFI Metro London Skills Cluster.”

“I am in no doubt that going to university was enormously important to my developing passions as a curator, a programmer and a writer. It also gave me knowledge and my first real access to the film industry. Using what they’ve learnt, I know the array of talented young people graduating today have a serious opportunity to enter and stay in one of the most exciting, rewarding industries in the world. I am the proof positive of that!

“Our industry doesn’t stand still. It’s diversifying in technology, content and audiences. This means our sector needs to be more inclusive, welcoming more skilled, talented, knowledgeable young people, passionate about contributing to the screen industries with fresh ideas, representing new generations of audiences.

“That is why institutions like Middlesex are so vital, and why I’m delighted to be associated with Middlesex University in this way. I wish all those graduating today the most tremendous success, and my sincere and heartfelt thanks to Middlesex University for conferring this doctorate upon me.”