On Friday 15th February 2013, after two hours of being locked in a room with my examiners I emerged as Dr Steven Robinson.

I survived the inquisition and, while I have no intention of repeating it ever again, I must say it wasn’t an utterly terrifying experience. Once I relaxed into it I was able to give a robust defence. Now I have been admitted to the degree I just need to work on my ‘minor corrections’ over the next month. Just a few typos! So I am happy with the outcome and was humbled by the kind comments both my examiners made with regard to my work. The next challenge will be to get the material from thesis into publication.

After the celebrations in Newcastle it is now time for me to go home and celebrate with my oldest friends and family. Alexis gave me a magnum of champagne and a beautifully decorated cake to enjoy on the day, but I still have my magnum of Belgian beer too!