The 35-year-old, who graduated from the university with a degree in physiotherapy last year, was presented the award at the winter graduation ceremonies in recognition of her sporting achievements and ongoing support of the university.

McClelland, who was also named as Disabled Sports Personality of the Year at the 11th annual Sussex Sports Awards, took to Twitter to express her pride in receiving the honour.

"An incredible day, thank you to @brightonalumni @sportbrighton for making me feel extremely special today on receiving my alumnus award!" she wrote on her official account.

Faye McClelland has won the World Paratriathlon Championship for the last four consecutive years ©Getty Images


The British Triathlon Female Paratriathlete of 2013 won her fourth Paratriathlon world title in as many years last year.

She is now preparing to compete at the Rio 2016 Games, where the sport will make its Paralympic debut.

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