Bristol University student, 62, allowed to graduate 41 years late – on the same day as his son

A former university student has finally been allowed to graduate 41 years after finishing his degree – on the same day as his son.

Jonny Clothier, 62 years old, studied architecture at the University of Bristol and completed his studies in 1983.

But after one of his flatmates’ pet parrot damaged their accommodation – they were left with a £64.80 bill last term – despite moving to live elsewhere.

A long-abandoned rule dictated that students with outstanding debt be allowed their degrees — but not a graduation ceremony.

Mr. Clothier always refused to pay on principle.

But last Thursday, the university decided to waive the usual restrictions, allowing Mr Clothier to graduate on the same day as his youngest son, Carter.

Carter studied biology and hopes to pursue a career in sustainability.

After his mother and father met and studied alongside each other at Bristol – Carter is the last of his family to graduate from university.

The Clothiers’ daughter Tiger studied law and works in marketing, while her brother Quito studied music – and now works as an art dealer.

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Their mother Helen, 60, read Russian and French and worked making TV documentaries in Russia.

Mr Clothier, who lives in Petersfield, Hampshire, said: “They didn’t mention the money so I’m keeping quiet.

“It’s not really about me, it’s about them and signing up to the 20-year project to help children through the whole education cycle.”

But he added that he “loves his time with architecture.” “We worked really hard, but we also played hard. We danced, we partied and then we went back to work,” he said.

“It was really nice to see the kids going through the same things 30 years from now.”

He left architecture for a career in television, but has returned to his original vocation, currently working on a contemporary net-zero treehouse in the Forest of Dean.

Carter Clothier said: “It’s definitely a unique experience graduating with your dad, but it was an amazing day and a beautiful ceremony. It was the perfect way to end three incredible years at Bristol.”

Professor Evelyn Welch, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University, presented Mr Clothier with his degree.

She said: “After 41 years we thought it was finally time to ditch the bill and it was great to see Jonny officially graduate.

“We are so delighted that Jonny, Carter and the rest of the family had such a great day and we wish them every success in the future.”