ACCLAIMED journalist Jeremy Paxman has been honoured by a North-East university.
The Yorkshire-born reporter, best known for his tough interview-style during 25 years as presenter of the BBC’s flagship Newsnight programme, was awarded an honorary degree by Northumbria University.
He has also presented University Challenge since 1994, making him the longest serving current quizmaster on British television.
During a question and answer session at the university, he told students: "Journalists shouldn't be taken too seriously - by themselves or others, but this is a treat. Thank you."
Paxman received his honorary degree alongside students graduating from Northumbria’s Business and Law programmes.
Actor, comedian and television presenter Alexander Armstrong returned to his native North-East to also receive an honorary degree from Northumbria.
Born at Rothbury and educated at Durham School, he became known as one half of the Bafta-winning comedy duo Armstrong and Miller and presenter of BBC quiz show Pointless.
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