Cochrane's Swiss surprise is an honour for Scottish hospitality

THE head of a Scottish hospitality charity has been given an honorary degree from one of Europe's most prestigious hospitality schools.

David Cochrane, chief executive of the Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland, was presented with an honorary degree in "international hospitality management" by the Glion Institute of Higher Education in Switzerland. The unexpected accolade came just after Cochrane had addressed the students during a graduation ceremony.

His award was given in recognition for his work with HIT Scotland, a charity that awards scholarships and works with higher education providers to raise aspirations and standards in the Scottish hospitality industry.

Cochrane said: "I was pleased just to be invited to meet the graduates of Glion.

"It is important to Scottish hospitality to see what the rest of the world is doing and learn from the best.

"I was just expecting a small thank you at the end of the ceremony and the honorary degree was a real surprise. I am very grateful and humbled by the award."