Manchester

University of Manchester to reveal chancellor result

Sir Mark Elder, Lemn Sissay and Lord Mandelson
Sir Mark Elder, Lemn Sissay and Lord Mandelson are vying for a post which lasts seven years

The University of Manchester will reveal the results of the ballot for its new Chancellor later.

The three candidates are former Cabinet minister Lord Peter Mandelson, poet Lemn Sissay MBE and Music Director of the Hallé Orchestra Sir Mark Elder.

The Chancellor's term of office starts in August and lasts for seven years in a role promoting the university.

Its current Chancellor is Tom Bloxham MBE, founder of Manchester-based property developers Urban Splash.

Lord Mandelson recently said he wanted the post "because the city of Manchester is becoming the most exciting, edgy place to be around in England".

He added: "Let's be honest, something very exciting is happening in this region as part of the Northern Powerhouse."

Mr Sissay said of the post: "I am the boy who walked barefoot to Manchester from a village in Lancashire. I came to learn and to grow and the learning and growing hasn't stopped. It has given me wings."

Sir Mark said: "My professional life takes me all over the world and I have always taken enormous pride, and pleasure, from singing the praises of our great city."

The vote result is due at 11:00 BST.

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