Call me Dr Cavendish: Manxman awarded honorary degree

Mark Cavendish is now a certified doctor...kind of.

The Manxman was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science degree from the University of Chester in recognition of his contribution to cycling over his distinguished career.

Cavendish collected his award from the university's chancellor, His Grace the Duke of Westminster.

"I am honoured and feel very privileged to receive this from the University of Chester," Cavendish said after receiving the degree.

Mark Cavendish's Specialized S-Works Venge ViAS

The 30-year-old has won 26 stages of the Tour de France since 2008 and donned the world champion's stripes in 2012, having won in Copenhagen the previous September.

Having ridden for Etixx-Quick Step for the past three seasons, Cavendish will move to Team Dimension Data for the 2016 season, with his sights set on securing a place at the Rio Olympics.

He rode on the track in 2008, but was the only member of the team to return without a medal, and also missed out in the road race at London 2012.

Even though he's now a doctor, it's unlikely that his new Dimension Data teammates will turn to him for medical advice during the next season.