Irwin 'humbled' by honorary award

Former Manchester United footballer Denis Irwin says he feels humbled after he was presented with an honourary doctorate at UCC today.

He was among five of Ireland's sporting legends honoured by the college at a special ceremony this afternoon.

Honorary doctorates of Arts were also conferred on Ireland and Munster rugby out half Ronan O’Gara, Hurling legend and Kilkenny manager Brian Cody, leading horse trainer Aidan O’Brien and one of the most honoured players in GAA history Mary O’Connor.

The conferring ceremony was presided over by UCC President Michael Murphy, who said today's awards recognised the magnificent sporting careers of Ronan O'Gara, Denis Irwin, Brian Cody, Mary O'Connor and Aidan O'Brien.

"Sport has been the lifeblood of our university since its foundation, and the centenary celebrations not only acknowledge the legacy of sporting success here, but also aim to honour and inspire the current and future generations of University athletes and sports people," he said.

Speaking to Cork's RedFM Togher man Denis Irwin says he feels very honoured: