MERSEYSIDE police’s former chief constable, Bernard Hogan-Howe, and Tranmere Rovers manager, Les Parry, have been honoured by a city university.

Mr Hogan-Howe received an honorary fellowship from Liverpool John Moores University for his “outstanding contributions in the field of law and order”.

Dr Les Parry, who recently signed a new contract with the club, graduated yesterday with a PhD on "the effects of de-training following injury in professional football”.

The qualified physiotherapist completed the PhD just weeks after keeping Tranmere Rovers in League One.

They were rewarded yesterday during a series of presentations at Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral.

Dr Parry said: “I am proud to gain a PhD at a university which is renowned for world leading research in sport and exercise sciences.

“I have certainly gained a great deal of knowledge relevant to my managerial position from this, as it is applicable to wider aspects of the game and player performance.

“The investment LJMU makes in the student experience is fantastic with world-class facilities available.

“It also has a lot to offer football clubs in terms of scientific consultation on all aspects of the game and I look forward to working with LJMU in the future.”

Mr Hogan-Howe said he was also “proud” to be recognised by Liverpool John Moores University yesterday.

Sheffield-born Mr Hogan-Howe, who is now appointed to Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, said: “The recent collaborative work carried out by LJMU with Merseyside Police has made a significant impact to the Foundation Degree Police Studies.

“The opening of a new police training centre in September will further boost the excellent facilities offered to our force by the university.”