NOMINATIONS will close next month in the search for a new university chancellor.

Durham University has set a deadline of January 20 for candidates to succeed writer Bill Bryson for the post, with staff and students invited to make nominations on the university’s website.

Broadcaster Stephen Fry has emerged as a popular front-runner, with widespread support among the students.

A “Stephen Fry for Durham University Chancellor” group has been set up on Facebook and has attracted 4,000 members, reflecting the growing support for the presenter of BBC series QI.

Student Union president Sam Roseveare said: “Stephen Fry is very popular among the student body.”

Earlier this year, the actor and comedian told supporters he was “deeply flattered and touched with crimson enchantment”

at the growing campaign to have him installed as chancellor when Mr Bryson steps down at the end of next year.

The US-born travel writer is Durham’s 11th chancellor, having succeeded actor Sir Peter Ustinov, who died in 2004. He has been a popular figurehead of the university, widely respected by students and staff and an enthusiastic advocate of the institution and its achievements.

Mr Roseveare said: “The students were surprised by the announced departure of a popular and much-admired chancellor.

“Bill was an eloquent and entertaining speaker, of whom the students have fond memories. He was actively involved in student life as a patron of Duck (Durham University’s Charity Kommittee) and Student Community Action.”

The new chancellor will be selected by a committee from the university, consisting of the student union president, the chairman of the University Council, the vice-chancellor and a college principal.

They will then put forward a name for a final decision to be made by the university’s convocation committee, which is comprised of graduates and staff.

A university spokesman said: “At the moment, there is no time scale on when the final decision about the new appointment will be made.”