A celebrated actor, author and playwright was awarded an honorary degree in Edinburgh on Tuesday.

Nigel Planer, of hit comedy series The Young Ones, received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts from Edinburgh Napier University at a ceremony in Usher Hall.

Mr Planer joined approximately 2000 Edinburgh Napier students graduating between June 14 and 15.

The stage and screen star is known best for his portrayal of hippy student Neil in The Young Ones, though was a pioneer of the UK’s alternative comedy scene, co-founding The Comedy Store.

Fellow honorary degree recipients were Sir Sandy Crombie, chairman of Creative Scotland and chief executive of the Standard Life group, Anne Brobbel, former deputy principal of George Watson’s College and Karen Carlton, Scotland’s Public Appointments Commissioner.

Professor Dame Joan Stringer, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University, said: “We are delighted to be honouring individuals who have made such significant contributions to enriching our culture, building our economies and servicing our communities in so many ways.

"Their achievements together with their qualities are an inspiration to our students.”