Canavan picks up honorary degree

The former Falkirk West MSP was given the award by Stirling University

Former MSP Dennis Canavan is among those being honoured at the University of Stirling's graduation ceremony.

Honorary degrees have been given to Mr Canavan, heritage expert Dr Kathleen Dalyell and Margaret Barr, director of the Scottish Police College.

More than 700 students graduated at the event in Stirling's Albert Halls.

BBC broadcaster Dr James Naughtie presided over the event, his first graduation ceremony as the university's chancellor.

Mr Canavan is being given the award of Doctor of the University in recognition of his outstanding contribution to sport and public affairs.

In 1974, he was elected MP for West Stirlingshire, which included the University of Stirling.

Following boundary changes in 1983, he was MP then MSP for Falkirk West.

When he retired last year, he was the longest-serving parliamentarian in the Scottish Parliament, having completed a total of 33 years at Westminster then Holyrood.

Dr Dalyell is receiving her degree in recognition of her services to the university and to civic Scotland.

As head of the police college, Margaret Barr is being given the award of Doctor of the University in recognition of her contribution to professional training, development and education in Scotland.