University honour for award winning author

Thursday 3 February 2000

Scots author Ian Rankin is to receive an honorary degree from the University of St Andrews.

The detective novelist will be presented with a Doctor of Letters (DLitt) at one of the University’s graduation ceremonies in June. The Chancellor of the University, Sir Kenneth Dover, will preside over the event.

Ian Rankin was born and raised in Cardenden, Fife. After attending local schools, he went on to study towards an MA in English Language and Literature, followed by a PhD in the novels of Muriel Spark. Despite not finishing the PhD, he managed to write three novels during his study time. Two of those novels were published and one, Knots and Crosses, was the first to feature his popular character Inspector John Rebus. The Rebus books developed into a television success, with John Hannah playing the detective. His latest novel is Set in Darkness.

Having also worked as a hi-fi and music journalist in London before moving to France for six years, Rankin is now based in Edinburgh. He has won many awards for his crime writing, including the prestigious Gold Dagger for his novel Black and Blue, and also writes radio plays, screenplays and short stories.

Issued by Beattie Media on behalf of the University of St Andrews For more information, contact Claire Grainger on 01334 462530 or mobile 07887 650072 – ref: hon2000.ianrankin/standrews/chg/3fe b2000/PR1885


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