A FORMER Urmston born man has been given a CBE in the New Year's Honours.

Robert Hough, who now lives in Bowdon, was awarded the honour for services to business in the North West.

Robert, who was born in Urmston in 1945, first attended Urmston Council school (Newton Road), before, at the age of 11, being sent to William Hulme’s Grammar School.

After leaving school he went to Bristol University where he studied law before becoming a solicitor.

Robert who has always lived in Trafford said: "My roots are totally embedded in the North West and it was of course for services to the North West that I received my CBE.

"One of my richest memories as a young boy was seeing the large ships on the Manchester Ship Canal sailing to and from Manchester Docks.

"I spent very many happy days at Irlam and Barton locks watching the wonders of the canal - hence my delight when I became chairman of the Manchester Ship Canal Company between 1987 to 2002."

He joined Peel Holdings as director in 1986 and was executive deputy chairman from 1989 to 2009.

Robert has held a number of different posts, including as a member of the North West Business Leadership Team from 2000-2009 and its chairman for until 2003.

He was appointed a board member of the Northwest Regional Development Agency in 2007 and was chairman between 2009 and 2012.

Among his various business roles, he was also chairman of the organising committee of Manchester’s Commonwealth Games from 1995-1999 and chairman of the Urban Regeneration Company for New East Manchester between 2002 and 2009 and its Chairman for three years until 2003.

He has also been a board member on the Learning & Skills National Council and a member of The Northern Way steering group.

Robert is a deputy lieutenant for Greater Manchester, and during 2004-2005 served as the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester.

He has received honorary doctorates from Manchester Metropolitan University and from the University of Salford.

He is also deputy chairman of the board of governors at the University of Manchester.

Robert, who is rightly proud of his background explains: "My mother, Joyce Hough, lived all her life in Urmston and passed away three years ago at the age of 92. For many years, up to her death, she was president of the Golden Hill Ladies’ Bowling Club."

He adds: "My whole career has been spent in the North West during which time I have been privileged to contribute to many great projects with committed and talented colleagues."