BBC star Chris Evans gets an honorary degree at York Minster – and has a message for students

A very famous face was found under one of the mortar boards at York Minster on Tuesday (November 15).

DJ and broadcaster Chris Evans was one of those being given an honorary degree during the York St John University graduation ceremony.

And he had a special message for his fellow graduates: “Congratulations to the university class 2016 York… St John!”

Day 1 of Graduation done! Huge congratulations to students graduating today. Here is a special message from @achrisevans just for you! pic.twitter.com/L1VJxaINDB

— York St John Uni (@YorkStJohn) November 15, 2016

He wasn’t the only BBC star honoured at the ceremony. Chief international correspondent for BBC World News Lyse Doucet was also awarded an honorary degree. And road racing cyclist Lizzie Deignan also picked up an award.

An honour to be an honorary graduate w @lizziedeignan @achrisevans w @JohnSentamu @YorkStJohn pic.twitter.com/S6M5IlFLVf

— lyse doucet (@bbclysedoucet) November 15, 2016

Honorary graduate @achrisevans with Pro Chancellor Ann Green CBE processing through @York_Minster #ysjgraduation @YorkStJohn pic.twitter.com/oBQtucBRjU

— AbbigailOllive (@AbbigailWright) November 15, 2016

This year sees the university celebrate its 175th year and more than 2,000 York St John students will take part between November 15 and 17.

Other famous names to be awarded honorary degrees include Yorkshire-born chef and television presenter James Martin, investigative reporter Brian Deer and actor Julia Davis.

Sporting achievers to get the same honour include wheelchair racer Hannah Cockroft and professional rugby league footballer Jamie Peacock.

Professor Karen Stanton, vice chancellor of York St John University, said: