Lord Stevens received an honorary degree from the university in 2001

John Stevens will become Northumbria University's new chancellor when he succeeds Lord Glenamara, who announced he was stepping down in December.

Lord Stevens retired as Metropolitan Police Commissioner earlier this year after a career with the service stretching over almost 43 years.

He was Northumbria Police's Chief Constable from 1991-1996.

Lord Stevens was awarded an honorary doctorate in civil law by Northumbria University, in Newcastle, in 2001.

'Global perspective'

He said: "I do not intend to be a distant presence. I live in the North East of England and I intend to use every opportunity to get to know Northumbria University as an academic community of which I am proud to be new Chancellor."

In his new role, Lord Stevens will be an ambassador for the university and will preside over formal events including its annual award congregations.

Vice-chancellor Prof Kel Fidler said: "Northumbria University is very active internationally and it is important that we have a chancellor who also has a global perspective.

"Lord Stevens has advised governments worldwide on a range of security matters and, just as importantly, he has a deep and abiding respect for education as a force in today's world.

"His personal profile complements the university's academic programme ideally."

Lord Glenamara has been the university's chancellor for more than 20 years.