IRA bomb survivor receives honorary fellowship for work with terror victims

Jonathan Ganesh was injured in the London docklands bombing in 1996. He has campaigned for victims of terrorism and is president of the Docklands Victims Association

11:32, Fri, Jun 14, 2024 | UPDATED: 11:48, Fri, Jun 14, 2024

Head of the Docklands victims campaign group Jonathan Ganesh

Head of the Docklands victims campaign group Jonathan Ganesh was awarded an honorary fellowship by the University of Sunderland (Dominic Lipinski/PA) (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

Jonathan Ganesh, a survivor of the 1996 IRA Docklands bombing, has been honoured with an honorary fellowship by the University of Sunderland. The bomb attack left Mr Ganesh seriously injured, claiming two lives and wounding another 42.

Following the attack, he became a powerful voice for terrorism victims, heading up the Docklands Victims Association and training as a psychotherapist. During the pandemic, Ganesh served as an NHS responder, driving a support ambulance.

The prestigious award was presented to him by University Chancellor Leanne Cahill.

Mr Ganesh said: "I'm very touched. Receiving this award from this wonderful university is truly amazing."

He added that although he's accepting it, the honour is on behalf of all those they've helped and everyone contributing to the charity's work and accomplishments.

Many have congratulated Mr Ganesh on his achievement, including Ihsan Bashir, whose sibling Inam was one of the casualties in the Canary Wharf bombing.

Mr Bashir, who attended the awards at the university graduation ceremony at Southwark Cathedral in London, said: "I feel immensely honoured to accompany Jonathan at this award ceremony and I'm so very pleased Jonathan has received an honorary fellowship from the University of Sunderland."

Mr Ganesh receiving his award from Leanne Cahill and university Vice Chancellor Sir David Bell

Mr Ganesh receiving his award from Leanne Cahill and university Vice Chancellor Sir David Bell (Image: UOS)

He further spoke of his long-standing friendship with Mr Ganesh, adding: "I have known Jonathan for nearly 40 years. He has honoured my brother Inam and all those impacted by acts of terrorism through his humanitarian work."

Susanne Dodd, the daughter of Inspector Stephen Dodd from the Metropolitan Police who tragically lost his life in the 1983 IRA bombing at Harrods, praised Mr Ganesh, stating: "Jonathan is highly deserving of the award and I'm delighted that he has been recognised for supporting victims of conflict and enhancing the lives of those impacted by trauma."