THE achievements of a former Coronation Street star and one of the country’s leading mountaineers have been recognised by a North-East university.

Thelma Barlow, who played Mavis Riley in the soap for more than 25 years, was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Teesside yesterday.

Mrs Barlow, who was born a fiveminute walk from the university, in Middlesbrough, was made an honorary doctor of letters.

The actress described the recognition as a great honour.

“I would never have expected it and I can’t get over the fact I’ve been awarded it – it’s such a thrill,” she said.

Also receiving an honour was Alan Hinkes.

Mr Hinkes, from Northallerton, is the only Briton to climb all 14 of the world’s mountains that are higher than 8,000 metres.

He became an honorary doctor of professional studies.

“It’s an honorary doctorate and I’m honoured,”

the climber said.

“It’s great to be here and I’m really flattered.”

Asked how it compared to his other achievements, Mr Hinkes said: “I don’t have to risk my life getting it, although I suppose I partly got it because I risked my life in those big mountains – this is a lot more pleasurable though.”

Three other people were awarded honorary degrees at the ceremony, at Middlesbrough town hall.

Margaret Fay OBE, chairwoman of development agency One NorthEast, becomes an honorary doctor of laws.

Before joining the agency, Mrs Fay had a 22-year career with Tyne Tees Television.

Professor Eric Thomas, who was born in Hartlepool, received an honorary doctor of science degree.

He is the vice-chancellor of the University of Bristol.

Steve Penrose graduated from Teesside University’s predecessor, Teesside Polytechnic, in the Seventies.

He is now senior vice-president of US business outsourcing company ADP.

Mr Penrose was awarded an honorary doctor of business administration degree.

The honorary degrees were handed out at the last of ten Teesside University graduation ceremonies that took place this week.

Nearly 3,000 former students received a range of awards, including diplomas, first degrees, masters and doctorates.