Giggs honoured by university

Manchester United and Wales international footballer Ryan Giggs has been awarded an honorary degree for his contribution to sport and charitable causes.

Giggs, 33, was made a master of arts by the University of Salford in a ceremony at the Lowry Theatre.

Collecting his award, Giggs said: "I'm really pleased to accept this degree.

"When I started my career as a professional footballer I didn't envisage that one day I'd be made master of arts.

"I grew up in Salford and it's been a big part of my life for 30 years, so it's great to be a part of Salford University now."

The Cardiff-born midfielder beat Sir Bobby Charlton's record of 758 appearances for the Old Trafford club in May as the team secured another Premier League title.

Since his childhood playing football for Salford Boys, the Wales international has amassed 10 FA Premier League winners' medals in his career as well as triumphs in four FA Cups, two Champions League finals and two League Cups.

Giggs, an ambassador for Unicef, regularly campaigns for children in South Africa who have been made vulnerable by HIV and Aids.

He was awarded an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List last year for his services to football.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Harloe said: "We are delighted to present this degree to Ryan. It is not only his great achievements on the pitch for which he deserves recognition, but for his valuable charity work with developing countries."