A former university student finally managed to graduate 41 years after completing his degree – on the same day as his son.
Jonny Clothier, 62, studied architecture at the University of Bristol and finished his studies in 1983.
But after one of their flatmates’ pet parrot defaced their accommodation – they were left with a bill of £64.80 for the final term – despite having gone to live elsewhere.
A long-abandoned rule mandated that students with outstanding debt could receive their diplomas — but not a graduation ceremony.
Mr Clothier always refused to pay on principle.
But last Thursday the university decided to lift the usual restrictions, allowing 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 together in Bristol – Carter is the last in 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.
Jonny Clothier (second left) with his wife Helen (left) and sons Carter (center), Tiger (second right) and Quito (far right). Photo: PA
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Their mother, Helen, 60, read Russian and French and worked making TV documentaries in Russia.
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 passing the 20-year blueprint to get kids through the entire education cycle.”
But he added that he “loved the time he spent doing architecture.” “We work a lot, but we also play a lot. We dance, party and then go back to work,” he said.
“It’s been really nice to see kids go through the same things 30 years later.”
Jonny Clothier in his graduation photo. Photo: PA
He left architecture to pursue a career in TV, but has returned to his original calling, currently working on a contemporary, net-zero emissions treehouse in the Forest of Dean.
Carter Clothier said, “It’s definitely a unique experience graduating with your dad, but it was an incredible day and a beautiful ceremony. It was the perfect way to cap off three incredible years at Bristol.”
Professor Evelyn Welch, vice-chancellor and president of the university, conferred Mr Clothier’s degree.
She said: “After 41 years we thought it was finally time to give up the law and it was great to see Jonny officially graduate.
“We are delighted that Jonny, Carter and the rest of the family had such a good day and we wish them all the best of luck for the future.”
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