It's Doctor Fry!

28 January 2011, 16:30 | Updated: 10 February 2011, 15:34

Stephen Fry spoke of his pride at being awarded an honorary degree for campaigning for people living with bipolar disorder, mental health problems, and HIV and Aids.

 

The writer and broadcaster, who hosts comedy quiz QI, said ``he couldn't be happier or prouder'' at being made an honorary doctor.

Dressed in traditional gown and cap, Fry joined almost 1,000 students from the University of Sussex for their winter graduation ceremony at the Brighton Dome today.

Fry was welcomed by comedian and actor Sanjeev Bhaskar, who is also the Chancellor at the University of Sussex, and said that ``Sussex just about ruled the world''.

Also honoured was Professor David Clary, chief scientific adviser to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, who was made doctor of science.

The winter ceremonies are mainly for those receiving postgraduate qualifications such as master's degrees, doctorates and postgraduate certificates of education (PGCE).

Those who graduated included Kathy Walker, who achieved her ambition to become a maths teacher despite being profoundly deaf.

Others included Carmen Gheoldus, who held down three jobs to pay her way through postgraduate study, and 77-year-old Geoffrey Whitfield, who graduated with a master's in conflict studies following a lifetime promoting peace around the world through sport.

University vice-chancellor Professor Michael Farthing said: ``The university is delighted to recognise the enormous achievements in both the arts and the sciences, as represented by Stephen Fry and Prof David Clary.

``We are equally proud that the Sussex name will be represented at home and in all parts of the world by our talented and high-achieving graduates.''