James is new Chancellor of the University of Ulster

The well known Coleraine actor will will succeed former London Lord Mayor, Sir Richard Nichols, who is standing down after eight years in the post.

The chair of the University's ruling Council, Gerry Mallon confirmed the University had offered the star of 'Cold Feet', 'Murphy's Law' and 'Bloody Sunday' the position and he had accepted.

"We're delighted James, a former student at the University and an honorary graduate, has agreed to take on this very important role," Mr Mallon said.

In 2003, Broughshane-born James Nesbitt received the honorary degree of Doctor of Letters (D Litt) from the University for Services to Drama.

He had previously studied French at Ulster but left to pursue a career in acting by studying drama at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London.

For full story, see Tuesday's Coleraine Times