Professor Hungin, known as Pali, is an eminent doctor and medical researcher with more than 30 years’ experience. He was founding Professor of Primary Care and General Practice at Durham University in 1997 and their founding Dean of Medicine in 2003. He later joined Newcastle University, where he remains a Professor Emeritus.

Born in Kenya, Professor Hungin was a founding member of the UK and European Societies for Primary Care Gastroenterology and is internationally recognised for his research and leadership in patient care.

He has served as President of the British Medical Association and is currently a non-executive director of the Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust.

In 2008, he was awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) for services to research and made Deputy Lieutenant for County Durham, serving as a representative of the monarch in the County.

Testament to achievements

Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, said: "I would like to congratulate Pali on this honour.

“It is a testament to all he has achieved in the years since graduating at Newcastle University's Medical School in 1975 to now being an Emeritus Professor in our Faculty of Medical Sciences."

Durham Vice-Chancellor, Professor Karen O’Brien, added: “PaIi has been a leading name and influence in medicine and medical research not only in North East England but nationally and internationally for decades now.

“Durham University owes him a great deal, as do countless patients around the region and beyond. We congratulate him on this richly deserved honour.”

Reflecting on his career and knighthood, Professor Hungin said: “Being a doctor is a privilege. This honour is the result of many people working together.

“My profound thanks to Durham and Newcastle universities and to my practice-based colleagues for their support and commitment to patient care.”