Dame Judi Dench gets University of Stirling degree

Dame Judi Dench accepts her honorary degree from the University of Stirling. Picture: Jane Barlow

The star of film, television and theatre will receive the award of Doctor of the University for her contribution to the arts.

The Oscar-winner is also being recognised for her work in highlighting dementia.

After receiving her degree Dame Judi will visit the university’s Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC).

She has been a long-standing supporter of work at the centre since opening its Iris Murdoch building a decade ago.

Professor June Andrews, the centre’s director, said the actor had given a “terrific boost” to its international work.

Respected

“Her moving Bafta-winning performance depicting a woman with dementia in the classic film Iris is still one of our best resources in helping everyone understand the value of every person with this condition, and the evidence base for supporting them,” she said.

Dame Judi began her career on the stage, establishing herself as one of the most respected performers in British theatre.

She moved into television with long-running appearances in A Fine Romance and As Time Goes By.

Her film roles include Queen Victoria in Mrs Brown, Shakespeare in Love, Chocolat and Notes on a Scandal.

Dame Judi was cast as the first female ‘M’ in the James Bond franchise in 1995 and starred in the latest movie Skyfall in 2012.