ONE of the world’s leading trainers, Martin Pipe, was among those receiving honorary degrees from Liverpool University.

Mr Pipe received the award for his achievements in the world of horse racing. He has trained 4,000 winners at his Somerset stables, including the Grand National, Champions Hurdle and some 35 wins at Cheltenham.

However, he has cited the winning of the 1994 Grand National by Miinnehoma – owned by Liverpool comic Freddie Starr – as the highlight of his career.

The trainer pioneered a scientific approach to training which has had a major impact on the industry.

Mr Pipe retired on the last day of the National Hunt season last year, with his son David taking over control of the stables.

Two distinguished figures also received honorary doctorates. They were Michael Potts, whose previous family business was responsible for the famous clock on the university’s flagship Victoria Building.

Mr Potts is also a former High Sheriff of Merseyside and a member of the council at Liverpool University.

Leading Liverpool-born and educated molecular biologist Prof Joseph Sambrook received a doctorate for his work on the biology of normal and cancerous cells.