A UNIVERSITY is set to honour a dad who died during his studies for a doctorate.

Chris Griffiths, from Orford, had been studying for a doctorate in computer sciences at Waikato University in New Zealand.

But the dad-of-four died at the age of 51 in January, having been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer two months earlier.

Now the university will honour Chris with a posthumous degree.

Sister Paula Walsh said: "Having worked in retail since emigrating, he decided in 2011 that he would return to college to study computer science - first gaining his diploma and going on to complete both his degree and masters.

"During this time he had numerous articles published within local scholarly literature and also spent a considerable amount of time supporting students from Waikato University, teaching computer science and also marking current students' work.

"He then decided to continue his education and embarked on his doctorate.

"Unfortunately, in November he was diagnosed with a high grade neuroendocrine tumour which affected his brain, liver, lungs and spine.

"Chris' wish was that he could continue his studies and complete his doctorate.

"However, his condition deteriorated rapidly and he passed away on January 20 at home with his family - including myself - at his bedside."

Former St Margaret's CE Primary School and Sir Thomas Boteler CE High School pupil Chris grew up on Clive Avenue.

He moved to New Zealand in 2001 after marrying second wife Zola, who is from the country's North Island, following a 'whirlwind romance'.

Having been cremated in New Zealand, Chris' ashes were brought back to the Warrington and buried at Fox Covert Cemetery.

Paul added: "In May, his wife received notification from Waikato University that Chris was to be awarded a posthumous master of philosophy degree in computer science in recognition of the work he had undertaken towards his doctorate.

"His family will be presented with the award and a copy of his bound thesis in a ceremony later this year."