Aberdeen University rector named

Scotland the What? star Stephen Robertson won the vote

The new rector of the University of Aberdeen is Scotland the What? star Stephen Robertson.

Mr Robertson received 928 votes, edging out Aberdeenshire councillor Martin Ford with 852.

Mr Robertson and his comedy colleagues had received the freedom of Aberdeen in April.

The current rector, MSP Robin Harper, steps down on 30 June. Local journalist and community worker Hamish Mackay was also in the running.

Mr Robertson said: "As a graduate of the University of Aberdeen I am absolutely delighted to have been voted in as rector. Some people have greatness thrust upon them and today I had greatness thrust upon me."

Mr Ford's casting vote on an Aberdeenshire council committee saw Donald Trump's £1bn golf plans being rejected, before it was called in by the Scottish Government.