POET Lemn Sissay who grew up in care in Leigh and Atherton has been elected as the next Chancellor of The University of Manchester.

The 150,000 electorate — comprising University staff, registered alumni and members of the General Assembly — chose the award-winning writer and broadcaster from a shortlist of three nominees.

The 48-year-old beat competition from Hallé music director, Sir Mark Elder, and former Cabinet minister and Labour peer, Lord Peter Mandelson, to be named the new ceremonial figurehead.

Mr Sissay, who was awarded an MBE for services to literature, said: “Reach for the top of the tree and you may get to the first branch but reach for the stars and you'll get to the top of the tree. 

"My primary aim is to inspire and be inspired. 

“I am proud to be Chancellor of this fantastic university and extremely grateful to everyone who voted for me.”

Mr Sissay is an associate artist at the Southbank Centre, patron of the Letterbox Club and fellow of the Foundling Museum. He is also the author of a series of books of poetry, alongside articles, records, radio documentaries, public art and plays.

His mother came to England in 1967 and, after finding herself in difficulties, sought to have her son fostered for a short time.

He was placed into the care of Wigan Social Services at the age of just two months and fostered by a family who he says were told to treat it like an adoption.

He was with them for 11 years before they put him into care where he remained until he was 17.

Speaking of his time in care, he previously said: "My experience in care was dark but, outside of the children's home, were the people of Leigh and Atherton. They really kept me sane and they really made me feel like I belonged."

Mr Sissay received 7,131 votes, Sir Elder a total of 5,483 and The Rt. Hon. the Lord Mandelson, 5,269.