On Wednesday 16th November, footballer David James was awarded an Honorary Master of Science by the University of Hertfordshire in recognition of his outstanding contribution as a goalkeeper and to the development of youth football in the community.

At the ceremony which was held in the Cathedral and Abbey Church of St Alban, David who has a twenty five year career playing for club and country received his Honorary Degree alongside over 4,000 new graduates.

Commenting on receiving his Award, David James, 41, said: "I consider it a great privilege to receive this degree today. Much as it is a personal achievement, it is only possible thanks to the time and effort invested in me, by my family and not forgetting many coaches, players and managers I have played alongside over the past twenty-five years.”

He added: “I feel very fortunate to have been able to express myself in a career many only dream of, and in doing so, using that career to hopefully help others wherever possible. Having been born and raised in Hertfordshire, it also makes me very proud to get an award from the University of my home county.”

David is an ambassador for the Bristol City Community Trust which works with local schools, youth organisations and sports clubs.  The Trust reaches fifty thousand young people through a range of football in the community and coaching initiatives.  Through David’s hands-on role with charities, he also set up the David James Foundation, a non-political charity that works towards improving food production, ending food poverty and working towards building sustainable agriculture in Malawi. (www.djf.org.uk)