MOTOR racing legend Sir Stirling Moss is to be honoured for his achievements by a North-East university.

He will be presented with an Honorary Doctorate of Technology by Sunderland University on Friday, July 14.

Sir Stirling, whose name has become synonymous with the sport, competed in more than 500 races, rallies, hill-climbs, speed records and endurance runs during his career, winning 217 of them.

A week earlier, County Durham children's writer Terry Deary, whose Horrible Histories are extremely popular, will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Education.

Mr Deary was born in Sunderland and qualified as a drama teacher at Sunderland College of Education, which subsequently became the university's School of Education.

Former university vice-chancellor Dr Anne Wright will be honoured for her outstanding contribution to education and North-East life when she receives an Honorary Doctorate of Laws on Wednesday, July 12.

Dr Wright left the university two years ago to become chief executive of the University for Industry.

South Shields-born Edward Wilson, director of the National Youth Theatre, will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Arts on the same day.

Other recipients include Lord Matthew Evans, chairman of the Council for Museums, Archives and Libraries, who will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Letters on Friday, July 7.

On Friday, July 14, Professor Alan Richardson, an engineering graduate of the former Sunderland Polytechnic and now chief executive of Scottish Power in the USA, will receive an Honorary Doctorate of Business Administration.

Gregory Hutchings, chief executive of Tomkins PLC, will be given the same award on the same day.

University vice-chancellor Professor Peter Fidler said: "Their example will, undoubtedly, inspire our new graduates as they celebrate their academic success and embark on their careers."

The award ceremonies will be held in the city's Empire Theatre.