The story of a Manchester university professor whose secret life as a porn star was revealed has provoked quite a reaction.

Nicholas Goddard - aka adult film star ‘Old Nick’ - is being investigated by university chiefs after his double life was laid bare. Millions have watched the divorced father-of-three in blue movies online.

Prof Goddard made a name for himself after a decade starring in porn films - all the while working as a chemical engineering lecturer at The University of Manchester.

University chiefs say they’re ‘continuing to assess the situation’ following the revelations about Prof Goddard’s second job came to light.

It is not yet known whether he will face action.

(Image: STEVE ALLEN)

When approached by the M.E.N. at his home, minutes away from the university’s Oxford Road campus, Prof Goddard declined to comment but confirmed he is awaiting a decision about his future from university chiefs.

Scores of M.E.N. readers have taken to social media to defend him. Others weren’t so impressed with his secret.

Nicola Munro said: “It’s nothing to do with his job, or the university. There is no need to investigate him, unless he has acted inappropriately.

“Back off is what I say!”

Read more: University of Manchester lecturer investigated after his secret life as a porn star is revealed

Sarah Scooky posted: “Was he married? Did it affect his duties as a professor? Did it affect his relationship with the students? If the answer is ‘no’, then what he does in his own time is his business.”

Michael Kenny added: “As long as it didn’t impact on how he did his job, then what’s the problem?

“What people do outside work is their business and no-one else’s. If he loses his job over this, it’s disgraceful.”

Watch: Spankathon in Manchester to protest pornography laws

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But not everyone has jumped to Prof Goddard’s defence.

Diana Peacock said: “Sadly, this person needs to be removed. He has to educate young people. A life of a porn star doesn’t give the right impression. I would be concerned about the message he would send out.”

Rose Marie Kelly posted: “What a disgrace. What should we expect from those he teaches? What set of values? No thank you.”

And Nwike Anali said: “Bad example to kids who want to be like him. He should be fired sooner rather later.”