Jimmy Doherty set for new role at Anglia Ruskin University

Jimmy Doherty, who runs Jimmy's Farm near Wherstead, Ipswich said that he "can't wait to get started" in his new role.

The news was announced on the first day of the week long Chelmsford Science Festival organised by ARU.

Mr Doherty hosted the Channel 4 cooking show Jamie And Jimmy's Friday Night Feast alongside TV chef Jamie Oliver (Image: Anglia Ruskin University)A life-long friend of fellow broadcaster Jamie Oliver, Mr Doherty was previously Chancellor of Writtle University College before it merged with ARU in February, becoming ARU Writtle. 

The 49-year old said he was "thrilled" that his connection with Writtle was continuing following the merger and to start his new role within ARU's new Writtle School of Agriculture, Animal and Environmental Sciences.

The presenter said: "To be involved with Anglia Ruskin University is a real privilege,

Originally from Essex, Jimmy Doherty has run the Suffolk farm for over 20 years (Image: Anglia Ruskin University) "There are so many strong connections between the work that I do and the fantastic research and teaching taking place at ARU Writtle, so I can't wait to get started in my new role of visiting professor, helping to inspire the next generation of scientists, farmers and conservationists."

He has run Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park with his wife Michaela since 2002, farming the land and wildlife conservation. 

The farm will also be included in the new plans from ARU, which will run joint education and research projects and a potential new PhD program in conservation.

The popular wildlife park and farm outside of Ipswich will work in conjunction with Anglia Ruskin University (Image: Newsquest) “Science is obviously really important in young people’s education," Mr Doherty said.

"but it’s vital to this region’s economy, bringing in billions of pounds in sectors like medicine, veterinary medicine, agriculture."

Professor Laurie Butler, pro vice chancellor and dean of the faculty of science & engineering at ARU, said: “We are immensely proud to be welcoming Jimmy Doherty to his new role within the university.

“Science and innovation have inspired Jimmy throughout his career journey, and we know that his knowledge, expertise and personal experiences will help to support and influence students