Top-performing student recognised

Cole Cornford, who completed his MSc Transport and Planning studies at the School of Geography and Planning in 2021, has been recognised for his outstanding academic performance.

Cole was the best-performing student on the Master’s programme, and was gifted a copy of Emeritus Professor Huw Williams’ award-winning book Forecasting Urban Travel Past, Present and Future.

Co-authored with Professor David Boyce from the University of Illinois at Chicago, the book won the 2016 The William Alonso Memorial Prize for Innovative Work in Regional Science.

Programme Director, Dr Dimitris Potoglou, said: “I’m really pleased to see Cole progressing so well in his studies. He has worked really hard to earn this well-deserved award. Congratulations, Cole!

“I’d also like to thank Professor Williams for kindly donating a copy of his agenda-setting book - a key reference for all travel researchers and practitioners - to be given as a prize once again. His continued support of the School, our work, and exceptional students is very much appreciated.”

Cole was an undergraduate student at the School of Geography and Planning, graduating with a BSc in Urban Planning and Development in 2020. He was awarded a Brian Large Bursary Fund to complete his MSc in Transport and Planning, a flagship programme at the School.

Cole said: "I am honoured to have been awarded the book ‘Forecasting Urban Travel, Past, Present and Future’ by Professor Huw Williams. Whilst my year on the Transport and Planning course during the COVID-19 pandemic has come with many personal challenges, my time studying has been both an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

“I would like to thank all the teaching staff and my friends on the course for the support they have given me during my studies, alongside Professor Huw Williams for the kind contribution of his book.”