A Former chief executive of Kingston Council was awarded an honorary doctorate by Kingston University recognizing decades of service.

Bruce McDonald served as the Royal Borough’s most senior non-political appointee for 15 years, from 2000 to 2015.

Among the achievements heralded by Kingston University was his instrumental role in the creation of the popular Rose Theatre on Kingston waterfront and his promotion of Kingston during the run-up to the 2012 London Olympics, which was credited with the eventual staging of Olympic Cycling through the town.

In a statement which praised Mr McDonald's contributions, Kingston University said he was "a champion of equality and an expert in leadership", who rose through the ranks of the local authority after joining as a personnel officer in 1980.

Kingston University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Martyn Jones also saluted Mr McDonald for the key influence he had in transforming the experiences of people across the borough in his role as chief executive.

He said: “The University is proud to recognise Bruce McDonald's achievements and contribution to the life of both the borough and the whole of London. Under his leadership as chief executive of Kingston Council, the University’s relationship with the borough flourished and we have been able build upon that foundation to achieve the strong partnership we enjoy today.”

Other achievements credited to Mr McDonald included the shifting graduation ceremonies for new Kingston University alumni from Central London to Kingston itself.

"I love the way the graduation events bring life and vitality to Kingston – and seeing graduates and their families taking photos in the town and walking around in their gowns epitomises that,” Mr McDonald said.

“It’s also a celebration of something I’ve always believed – a strong Kingston needs a strong university, and vice versa."

Receiving his award at the Rose Theatre, Mr McDonald said, "added extra poignancy" to the occasion. The Theatre officially opened in 2008 following the efforts of Mr McDonald and others.

"It only happened through clear vision and dedication to the idea that bringing the theatre to the town was the single most practical way to transform Kingston after dark," he said.