GREENOCK TV and film star Martin Compston has been made a ‘doctor’ after receiving an honorary degree.

The Line of Duty actor was presented with the honour by Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the world of television, his fundraising efforts with Ardgowan Hospice and his commitment to students.

Martin’s honorary degree was conferred in front of more than 1,500 students and guests at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

He told them: “Believe it or not if acting or football hadn’t worked out I was on my way to university to become an accountant. 

“And as much as I’ve loved every crazy step of becoming an actor, I always regretted missing out on the university experience. 

“The thrill of opening yourself up to a world of new ideas. 

“The excitement of discovering your craft amongst a sea of new faces. 

“Learning from mentors you’ll never forget, making friends for life.”

During his speech, the 34-year-old also gave some good advice to the new graduates.

He said: “I’ve been acting for 16 years now and auditioning still terrifies me. 

“Nerves can be a great thing because more often than not it means you really care about the thing you’re going for.

“You need to have that fire, the determination and confidence to show people you belong where you set out to be.”

The university’s Pro vice-chancellor of research, Professor Cam Donaldson, congratulated Martin.

He said: “In highlighting the conditions of some of the most vulnerable groups in society throughout his award-winning acting career, Martin has achieved the highest levels of recognition for his contributions to the Common Good.

“This is typified in his patronage of Inverclyde’s Ardgowan Hospice, offering care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses for 36 years now. 

“Martin organises an annual fundraising gala for the charity — raising tens of thousands of pounds each year. 

“He supports many other such initiatives, but Martin’s real passion and commitment lies with the hospice which is close to his, his family’s and friends’ hearts.

“It is a pleasure and an honour to confer upon him the award of the degree Doctor of Letters.”