The honour has been bestowed for Professor Blinkhorn's ground-breaking research on public health and health services, which also earned him an OBE from the Queen just six months ago.

The annual award, supported by Colgate-Palmolive and the estate of water fluoridation pioneer Frank McClure, was first presented in 1964; and is based on an academic's published research achievements over the past ten years. A global panel of past prize-winners selected Professor Blinkhorn from a host of international entrants, making him the first North West academic to win the award.

Professor Blinkhorn said: "I feel very honoured to have been given such a prestigious award, which actually recognises the achievements of everyone I have been lucky enough to work with over the past ten years. I would particularly like to thank Martin Tickle and Keith Milsom, Directors of the Oral Health Unit, and all my colleagues at Manchester, as well as my wife and fellow dentist Fiona, a constant source of inspiration and advice.

"Undertaking research in primary care is a difficult and daunting task, and teamwork is the only way to achieve results. Our work has led directly to the formation of the National Oral Health Unit within the National Primary Care R&D Centre at the University, which is making a real difference to the development of more effective dental policies and services in this country."

Head of the School of Dentistry Professor Kevin O'Brien said: "Anthony's work has elevated dentistry research in Manchester to an unparalleled international level, and we are extremely proud of his recent accomplishments."

The University's Vice President for Research Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell added: "We are delighted
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Contact: Jo Nightingale
jo.nightingale@manchester.ac.uk
161-275-8156
University of Manchester
13-Jan-2006