Donald, who started as a junior reporter in the Helensburgh and Gareloch Times in 1963, enjoyed a local newspaper career spanning six decades.

He rose through the ranks to become editorial director of Clyde and Forth Press Ltd, a position he held until 1999.

Donald was appointed as a tutor in the Scottish Centre for Journalism Studies from 2000, and joined GCU as a tutor in Practical Journalism in 2008.

TV news anchor and newly-appointed Honorary Professor John MacKay was also celebrated at the event which marked the achievements of GCU’s postgraduate journalism students.