Sir Jackie Stewart collects an honorary degree on Thursday

The former racing car driver received the accolade for his "talent and courage in sport and business".

Sir Jackie, who was Formula One World Champion in 1969, 1971 and 1973, also received "special recognition for his support for people with dyslexia".

Mountaineer and author Joe Simpson also received a degree.

They both received a Doctor honoris causa degree in a ceremony at McEwan Hall on Thursday.

Lead the way

Mr Simpson's best-selling book, Touching the Void, inspired the award-winning film of the same name.

Sir Jackie said his battle with dyslexia had been tougher than life behind the wheel.

"Motor racing is a different thing - that was easy. God gave me the gift for that bit. The hand-eye co-ordination worked for that," he said.

"Ten per cent of the entire population of this country are dyslexic.

"That means half a million people. If they're not helped to reach their full potential, they will be failures in life."