Record-breaking cyclist Mark Beaumont has been named as the new rector of Dundee University.

The 33-year-old succeeds actor Brian Cox to take up the role and was voted in unopposed.

Mr Cox had been the rector since 2010 and the cyclist, who was awarded an honorary degree from the institution, was actually in the audience when the Emmy-award-winning actor gave his inaugural speech.

Mr Beaumont said: "I am absolutely thrilled, and slightly surprised, to be the new rector of the University of Dundee.

"Six years ago I sat in the audience at the Caird Hall as Brian Cox stepped into the role and I remember his words about making a real difference.

"I commend Brian for his hard work and will do my utmost to continue being a credible voice for the student body.

"I went to high school in Dundee and was delighted to return and receive an honorary degree from the university in 2012.

"In fact, Dundee was the starting point for my first-ever adventure at the age of 12, to cycle across Scotland.

"The University of Dundee is also where my sister graduated from so I am certainly not short of connections and I am very proud of the city and the university's many successes over the years.

"I look forward to playing my part in the University of Dundee's many future triumphs."

Mr Beaumont first made the headlines when he completed an 18,000-mile round the world bike race, beating the previous world record by 82 days.

He followed this with a 13,000-mile ride down the length of the Rockies and Andes, climbing the highest mountains in Alaska and Argentina.

Mr Beaumont takes up his post with immediate effect.

Professor Sir Pete Downes, principal and vice-chancellor of Dundee University, said: "I am delighted to welcome Mark Beaumont into the university community and I am sure he will be an excellent representative for our students.

"He will have a hard act to follow in Brian Cox, who has displayed hard work, dedication and friendship to the students and to the university in general over his past six years in post.

"We are all extremely grateful to Brian and hope that he will continue to be involved in the work of the students' association and the university."

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