When I Startedmy Career As a Footballer I Didn’t Envisage That One Day I’D Be Made Master of Arts

HOLLYWOOD star Matthew Rhys and Welsh icon Ryan Giggs have been awarded an honorary fellowship and a degree.

Cardiff-born Rhys received his honorary fellowship from the University of Wales, Aberystwyth.

The 33-year-old actor, who played Dylan Thomas in the biopic TheEdgeOf Love, attendedthe ceremony during a break in his hectic filming schedule.

Rhys is now based in Los Angeleswhere he is starring in the American hit series Brothers And Sisters.

Manchester United footballer Giggs received his honorary degree from the University of Salford for his contribution to sport and charitable causes.

The 33-year-old, who was also born in Cardiff, was made a Master of Arts in a ceremony at the Lowry Theatre.

Collecting his award, he said: “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.”

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

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 whichhe deserves recognition, but for his valuable charity work with developing countries.”

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