PIONEERS in the world of computing who studied at Essex University in the 1970s reunited for the first time in 40 years after the institution awarded influential computer scientist Nigel Roberts an honorary degree.

Mr Roberts, who graduated with a degree in computer science from Essex in the early 1980s, played a pivotal role in developing the worldwide web.

He, alongside fellow Essex alumni Roy Trubshaw and Richard Bartle, also helped launch the world's first multi-user computer game, in a time when battling against an opponent in the virtual world – now a day-to-day routine for gamers – was an unknown quantity.

This development stemmed from the three friends’ involvement in the university’s computer society, which Mr Roberts chaired, as they developed the multi-user dungeon.

It was this that connected computer users from around the world and paved the way for the role-playing computer game industry – and the development of the multi-user dungeon is still recognised as being a key moment in the history of computer gaming.

After leaving Essex University, Mr Roberts continued to contribute towards the development of the internet, working for the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) for 30 years, serving as a director on its board from 2018 to 2021.

After receiving his honorary degree on Monday, Mr Roberts said his time as a student saw him learn immensely from students and academics alike.

He said: “It feels absolutely amazing to receive this honorary degree. It’s such an honour, 40 years ago I never thought I would be here today.

“It's special because I spent three very happy years at Essex. It changed my life and changed my attitude to life.”

“I just want to put on record my gratitude to the faculty of my time here at the University of Essex, including Iain MacCallum, Dave Lyons, the late Professor Tony Brooker and Mike (Sir Michael as he now is) Brady. Each of whom inspired me, each in their own special way.”

The wonders of the internet were on display even during the awards ceremony, which was live-streamed, allowing Mr Roberts’ 88-year-old mum to watch it in full from her home in the Channel Islands.