Davina and daughter share double degree joy

The TV presenter and women's health champion was honoured by Newcastle University

TV presenter Davina McCall has received an honorary degree from a university in the same week her daughter graduated there.

At a ceremony on Thursday, the former Big Brother host was made an honorary doctor of civil law by Newcastle University for her work championing women's health.

She said: "I feel a bit of a fraud, having seen how much work my daughter has put into her four-year degree and I swan in and get one."

Prof Chris Day said McCall had been "instrumental" in highlighting issues associated with the menopause.

McCall, 56, who has presented documentaries on contraception and the menopause as well as writing a book on the latter, said: "I am particularly chuffed that it is given to me for my work around women's health.

"I will continue to raise awareness and campaign for education and more research for as long as I am breathing."

Prof Day, the university's vice-chancellor and president, said of the recipient: "Her campaigning has led to increased awareness of these issues and sparked real change, including here in our Newcastle University community.

"We are delighted to recognise the hard work and achievements of both a mother and daughter in the same week."

In 2022, McCall released the book Menopausing: The Positive Roadmap To Your Second Spring, with the aim of ending "the shame and horrific misinformation surrounding menopause".

She was appointed MBE for services to broadcasting last year.