NORTH-EAST newsreader Mike Neville is to receive an Honorary Doctorate of Civil Law from Northumbria University.

He has been a familiar face on television screens for more than 40 years, as newsreader of North East Tonight on Tyne Tees Television and the BBC's Look North.

Mr Neville is patron of the Chin Up campaign for an independent children's hospice and of the Black Swan MS Group, a centre for people with multiple sclerosis. He was awarded an MBE in 1991 for services to broadcasting.

Max Mosley, Sir Mike Tomlinson and Leo Finn will also be honoured during the academic congregation ceremonies in July.

Professor Kel Fidler, vice-chancellor of Northumbria University, said: "We strive to provide our graduates with outstanding role models who they can look up to as they progress their careers.

"In this select group, I feel we do just that. These are exceptional people who have shone throughout their careers and I am sure that they will provide immense inspiration to our graduating students as they enter the workforce.

"I am delighted that they have all agreed to accept this award."

Max Mosley is president of the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile, the world governing body of motor sport.

He is responsible for the Formula One World Championships, the World Rally Championships and more than 600 other international motor sport competitions.

Former Chief Inspector of Schools Sir Mike Tomlinson chaired the Government's Working Group on Education Reform for 14 to19 year-olds.

Sir Mike also worked to restore Kuwait's education system after the Gulf War and he has helped to develop a school inspection regime in China. He is seen as one of the most reliable and knowledgeable experts in education.

Leo Finn successfully led Northern Rock plc through its flotation on the Stock Market in 1997 until his retirement in 2001.