A world-record breaking globe-trotting cyclist has been named as the new rector of Dundee University.
Mark Beaumont, who in 2007 completed an 18,296-mile cycle through 20 countries, was sworn into his new position on Monday.
In taking on his new role, Mr Beaumont follows in the footsteps of actor Brian Cox and comedian Stephen Fry.
The cyclist and broadcaster admitted he was “surprised and delighted” to be nominated as the university’s 13th rector.
He said: “It’s all happened very quickly. I’ve so many connections to the city.
“I was at school here and I received an honorary degree from this great university, so I’m absolutely delighted to be asked back.
“Over the last decade I’ve been to 125 countries and as a broadcaster and as an athlete I’m always trying to push myself.
“I’ve also tried to maintain a lot of links with Scottish universities.
“So to have a specific role within Dundee University, in my own city, is fantastic.
“It’s such an important link and it really is what you make of it.”
He added: “I was in the audience six years ago when Brian Cox took the role and what a wonderful acceptance speech he gave, what an actor.
“He’s well loved within the university and has made a real impact in the last six years.
“It’s big shoes to fill. But I think I bring something completely different to the role and I hope to make a real difference.”
Commenting on Dundee’s emergence as a world-leading city of design, Mr Beaumont revealed he had been impressed with the city’s progress over the past decade.
He said: “As far as the wider city is concerned, the infrastructure has come on leaps and bounds.
“And as a student experience, this university in particular has come up and up over the last 10 to 15 years.
“I’ve been very proud to see all of those improvements and all of that ambition.
“It’ll be quite exciting to be part of the future success of the university. It’s a bit of a homecoming for me,” he added.