PROMINENT public figures who have excelled in their respective fields were yesterday honoured by a Hampshire University.

More than 500 students packed into Winchester's famous Cathedral to see best selling author Bill Bryson and film critic Mark Kermode receive honourary doctorates.

Held during the annual graduation ceremony of the University of Winchester, the morning celebrations saw Mark Kermode, film critic for The Observer and the BBC, awarded a Doctorate of Letters for services to broadcasting.

Speaking moments after being presented the honour, Mr Kermode, who lives in Brokenhurst, told the Echo he was delighted and humbled.

"It was a wonderful ceremony," he said.

"It was terrific to see so many people here. For every single one of them it is a monumental day and it is impossible to feel anything other than pride."

Speaking of his BBC Radio 5 Live co-host's similar achievement, he added: "(Simon) Mayo received his honorary doctorate from Warwick in 2005. "He has been holding it over me ever since, even though I have a PhD from Manchester.

"Now I have one and we are equal!"

In the afternoon session, award winning author Bill Bryson was presented with a Doctorate of Letters for services to literature. This was his eleventh honorary doctorate.

Mr Bryson, whose books have sold more than 15 million copies, said: "I am truly honoured and delighted to be here and a part of the day.

"I am not just happy because about being part of the ceremony, but also that I took place in the Cathedral. It really was wonderful."

The American, who lives in Hampshire, published his latest book in February titled The Road to Little Dribbling. It examines his longstanding affection for Great Britain.

Eddie Jones, Head Coach of England's Rugby Union team was also due to attend to be presented with a Doctorate of Science for services to sport. However due to a family emergency the Australian did not attend the event. The University says he will have to come back another year to be presented with the honour.

Professor Joy Carter, vice-chancellor at the University, said: “We are excited to be honouring a number of truly inspirational individuals who in their distinguished careers have made significant contributions to society with the awards of Honorary Doctorates and Fellowships.”

Other prominent individuals being recognised by the University with an Honorary Doctorate this year include Sarah House, a water and hygiene engineer working in international development; horticulturalist Roy Lancaster CBE; former Dean of Winchester the Very Reverend James Atwell; former diplomat and Governor of the University of Winchester Dick Wilkinson; ethical jeweller Greg Valerio, and artistic director Kate Prince.

Allen Parton, the founder of charity Hounds for Heroes; Rebecca Murray, campaigner and founder of Article 26, a project supporting forced migrants to take part in higher education, and Gloria Vessey, barrister and founder of charity Advocates for Children, were awarded Honorary Fellowships.

All those being honoured have excelled in fields related to the University’s research and programmes, including creative writing and English literature, film studies and production, sports and exercise science and psychology.