ACTOR Colin Firth enjoyed being in the spotlight in front of hundreds of graduates when he took centre stage at Winchester Cathedral to receive an honorary degree.

The 47-year-old, who won the hearts of millions of women with his portrayal of Mr Darcy in the television production of Pride and Prejudice, received the honour from the University of Winchester.

He said: "In some ways this could not mean more to me as I have never laid my hands on one of these before."

Both Colin's parents Shirley and David are former lecturers at the university.

Gardening expert and television personality Alan Titchmarsh, who has homes in Alton and on the Isle of Wight, and author AS Byatt were also awarded honorary degrees by the university today.