Today man handed chancellor role

James Naughtie will begin his new role in July next year

James Naughtie, presenter of the Today programme on BBC Radio 4, has been confirmed as the next chancellor of Stirling University.

Mr Naughtie, an honorary graduate of the university, will take over the role from Dame Diana Rigg, who steps down in July next year.

Famous for her role as Mrs Peel in the Avengers, Dame Diana Rigg became chancellor of the university in 1998.

The role is ceremonial and involves presiding over events and graduations.

In addition to presenting the Today programme, Mr Naughtie has also written two acclaimed books on the Blair years.

Worthy successor

He said his new role meant a great deal to him.

Mr Naughtie added: "I know that the University of Stirling is flourishing and I am very proud to be part of its future. I am thrilled at the prospect."

Mr Naughtie was born in Aberdeen in 1951 and was educated at Aberdeen University and Syracuse University, New York.

He was a political correspondent at Westminster for The Scotsman and The Guardian before joining the BBC in 1988.

The university's principal and vice-chancellor, Professor Christine Hallett, called him a "worthy successor" to Dame Diane Rigg.

She said: "As a very distinguished Scot with an outstanding international reputation he will represent superbly the university's core values.

"He will undoubtedly be a worthy successor to Dame Diana Rigg who has served the university with great distinction for nearly a decade."

The University of Stirling was founded by Royal Charter in 1967 and is attended by about 9,450 students.