Fosters Bakery MD John Foster is to be presented with an honorary degree of ‘Doctor of the University’ by Sheffield Hallam University in November.

The honour will be presented to Foster at a ceremony at Sheffield City Hall by Lord Winston, Chancellor of the University.

The firm said it wasn’t every day that a baker receives such an award, and it was delighted and very proud of its MD.

“The letter came as a complete surprise to John and recognises his achievements so far as an internationally known baker, but moreover, it reflects decades of voluntary service to local people, to the food industry generally and, of course, to Sheffield Hallam University,” said operations director Michael Taylor.

Foster said: “I am very honoured (literally) to be receiving this award.”