BHA chief executive Bob Cotton was granted an Honorary Degree by London Metropolitan University last week.

Also awarded an honorary degree at the ceremony held at the Barbican Centre on 1 December was Chairman of HM Revenue and Customs David Varney.

Acclaimed British director Mike Leigh, and Cuban ballet dancer Carlos Acosta are also scheduled to receive Honorary Degrees at this year’s award ceremonies.

Cotton joins a wide range of public figures from the world of business, the arts, politics and public administration in receiving honorary degrees from London Metropolitan this year, including Dr Maleeha Lodhi, high commissioner for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; leading architectural historian, Dr Simon Thurley; incoming Lord Mayor, Alderman David Brewer; and celebrated author, Edna O’Brien.