A CBE has been awarded to the former Vice-Chancellor of Newcastle University.

James Wright held the post from 1992 until his retirement last year and is recognised for his services to higher education.

He said: "I am deeply honoured by this award.

"It recognises the success of the university in recent years and the very important contribution it has made to education and industry, which has been of particular benefit in the North-East.

"Of course, this achievement would not have been possible without the excellent staff and students with whom I have had the pleasure of working for nine years before my retirement."

During his career, Mr Wright has taught at Edinburgh and Cambridge.

He was secretary general of the faculties at the University of Cambridge before moving to Newcastle.