ONE of the key players in driving Bolton forward has been honoured by the University of Bolton.

Keith Davies, Bolton Council's director of development and regeneration, was awarded an Honorary Master for his contribution to the town of Bolton.

Mr Davies was behind the innovation zone, which saw the formation of an education village, with the town’s two colleges and the university, and the £31 million Bolton One complex.

Mr Davies said: “I feel very proud and honoured that my work in Bolton has been recognised in this way.

“I see this award as being for the whole team and for the work that they do.

“It is fantastic to see the students graduating and their families who have come to Bolton and get a sense of the town.”

In his speech Mr Davies told how his ambition had taken him from deck chair attendant, which he became straight after leaving school to securing a top job at one of the country’s biggest local authorities.

He told the graduating students about the “importance of ambition” which had seen him lead delegations to countries around the world.

“Message is to be ambitious and fulfil your potential,” he said.

Mr Davies graduated at the same time as Olympic cycling star Jason Kenny this morning.