The 27-year-old Londoner has astonishingly never been beaten in his event and he is the overwhelming favourite to claim gold at the London 2012 Paralympics, when the rowing competition takes place at Eton Dorney, after being selected for the ParalympicsGB team earlier this year.

Aggar took up rowing as part of the rehabilitation from his injury after he was paralysed in 2005 following a fall onto a concrete path that broke his back.

He has dominated the adaptive single scull class ever since and admitted he was delighted to be given an honorary degree by Middlesex University.

"I am extremely proud and honoured to receive this honorary doctorate from Middlesex University," said Aggar, who collected it at a ceremony at the University's Hendon campus in North London.

"It comes at a time of much anticipation and excitement before the Paralympic Games, and although my mind is firmly fixed on achieving in only a few weeks' time, to be recognised in this way at this time is incredible and I feel extremely privileged."


The award was made as part of the University's annual graduation celebrations, with honorary degrees presented to people who have made an outstanding contribution to their profession or community.

"Tom is an extraordinary athlete whose courage is an inspiration to all our students, particular the ones who will also be representing the UK at the London 2012 Games," said Middlesex University vice-chancellor Michael Driscoll.

"His discipline and passion for sport have seen him overcome obstacles to attain incredible success and set world records and Middlesex wishes him the best of luck in the upcoming Paralympics."

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