Naughtie takes over from Mrs Peel

James Naughtie takes over the role from Dame Diana Rigg

Author and presenter of BBC Radio 4's Today programme James Naughtie has been installed as chancellor at the University of Stirling.

Mr Naughtie takes over the role from Avengers actress Dame Diana Rigg, who stood down in July.

Former First Minister Jack McConnell, Sportscotland chair Louise Martin and hotelier Jasminder Singh were given honorary degrees at the same event.

The ceremony to replace the chancellor is only held once every 10 years.

As chancellor, Mr Naughtie, an honorary graduate of the university, will carry out ceremonial duties including presiding over future graduations.

Jack McConnell was made a doctor of the university for his contribution to public affairs.

Hotel market

He graduated from Stirling University in 1983, before becoming leader of the city's council.

In 1999 he became an MSP in the first Scottish Parliament, was elected first minister in 2001 and led the Scottish Labour Party to victory in the 2003 elections, holding the position until 2007.

Jasminder Singh OBE, the founder, chairman and chief executive of Radisson Edwardian Hotels was also made a doctor of the university for his services to the hotel industry.

Born in Tanzania and educated in East Africa, he came to the UK in 1968 where he qualified as an accountant before making his first move into the hotel market in 1975.

Louise Martin CBE, who led Scotland's successful Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Bid, was also given the honour for her contribution to sport and public affairs.

The former athlete, who competed in the 1962 Commonwealth Games in Perth, Australia, was appointed chair of Sportscotland earlier this year.