Tony Bellew has spoken of his pride after being awarded an honorary degree from Edge Hill University, describing the moment as a career highlight. The former boxer, who is also a prominent mental health campaigner, shared his thoughts in an interview with the ECHO.
Bellew received the honorary doctorate last month, a special day for his family. He was also in attendance at the Southport Flower Show on Friday, August 21, stepping in at the last minute to replace Rob Rinder, who was unable to attend after the death of his father.
An 'honoured' Bellew on his latest accolade
Speaking to the ECHO about the award, Bellew said: "I was honoured and still taken aback- I can’t believe it. I’m no different than the person I was before it. I’m still trying to be out there just doing what I’m doing, helping people."
The lifelong Everton fan, who has often opened up about his own mental health struggles, hopes to make a difference for younger generations. He told the ECHO: "Ultimately I want to speak to these kids and help them because they are struggling right now. Life is so hard for them because there’s so much going on and so many difficult things that they are trying to aspire to be."
Using social media for good
Bellew highlighted the role of social media in young people's lives, saying: "Social media plays a massive part in that, we need to use it to their benefit to help them. Not just to show them ‘you’ve got this and you’ve got that’. Show them how you got it and encourage children to take part in the journey and not so much the destination."
He added: "If everyone takes part in the journey we’ll all reach the destination."
A family milestone at graduation
As well as accepting his own degree, Bellew witnessed his eldest son Corey collect his cap and gown last month. The 21-year-old achieved a First Class Honours degree in Physiotherapy.
Sharing a photo of his son at the ceremony, the dad-of-four said: "Son I can’t put into words how proud of you I am! You inspire me! I could never of done what you’ve done! You’ve not been given anything, You’ve earned EVERYTHING! Worked and got a job when I told you there was no need! You’re a great example to your three younger brothers and someone who is not only my friend but someone I can depend on. Never change you handsome devil ya.. Love you more than words can ever say."
Bellew met his wife Rachael when they were nine years old and living on the same street in Liverpool. They later reconnected while Bellew was working as a bouncer at a nightclub where Rachael was dancing. The couple, who married eight years ago, share four children: Corey, Cobey, Carter, and Carson. The family now lives in Southport.
Stepping in at the Flower Show
Reflecting on the Southport Flower Show, Bellew told the ECHO: "I’m amazed at how many people are here and how big the whole event is. It’s just beautiful to see people come together. Southport has been through some very difficult times, but there are so many beautiful things going on for Southport. They’ve done an amazing job with the Flower Show."
He joked: "I'm not into my flowers but I know what I like to look at. There's no point lying to you, I just like anything blue."
