University honours Lord Robertson

Lord Robertson served as secretary general of NATO for four years

The former secretary general of Nato, Lord Robertson, is to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Stirling.

The politician is one of six people who have been selected to receive the honour this week.

American poet Adrienne Rich will also be given a doctorate for her work.

About 1,000 graduands will receive degrees when the university stages its awards ceremony at Stirling's Albert Halls on Friday.

Lord Robertson of Port Ellen will receive the award of Doctor of the University in recognition of his work in public affairs.

Gender and politics

He was selected as the 10th secretary general of Nato in 1999, holding the post until December 2003 when he received a life peerage.

Adrienne Rich, who was awarded the Yale Younger Poets Award in 1951 at the age of 21, is being honoured for her contribution to poetry.

At the age of 70, she has written more than 15 volumes of poetry and four books of non-fiction prose.

Her works on gender and politics are studied across the globe.

Ms Rich's degree will be conferred in absentia.

Those receiving awards also include Bafta-winning photographer Doug Allan, lifelong learning guru Dr Jarl Bengtsson, painter and art curator Richard Demarco and the founder of Zoom Airlines, Hugh Boyle.