University honour for waterskier

Janet Gray suffered leg and arm fractures and facial injuries

Northern Ireland's blind water skiing world champion Janet Gray has been honoured by Queen's University in Belfast for her services to sport.

Janet is currently recovering from a near fatal accident in Florida last March.

She sustained a broken jaw, plus leg and arm fractures and facial injuries, and underwent four hours of surgery after crashing into a wooden and metal ski-jump ramp.

The three-time world champion received a doctorate from the university on Friday.

Queen's director of student services Russell Rowley said Janet was a "role model".

"The achievement of such outstanding success requires a range of skills and attributes - dedication, precision timing, balance and interpretation of adaptive technology as well as enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence," he said.

Other figures honoured by the university in the summer graduations include comedian Patrick Kielty and actor Stephen Rea.

International film star Liam Neeson will receive his honorary degree during the winter graduation ceremonies in December.

Professor Kim Barrett, one of the world's most prominent female scientists, and historian Thomas Pakenham will also accept their awards in December.