Kelling me softly

It must be pretty lonely being one of the most vilified vice-chancellors around.

Kel Fidler, vice-chancellor of Northumbria, faced the wrath of the University and College Union when he became the first university boss to dock 100 per cent of staff salaries for taking part in the industrial action over pay last month.

But he takes some solace from the fact that during a recent dispute, protesting lecturers used his first name - reflecting the more relaxed and informal relationship he enjoys with them - when they called for his resignation. The chants of "Kel out! Kel out!" had a softer ring, apparently.

diary@thes.co.uk