Former Leyton Orient chairman Barry Hearn has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of East London (UEL).

The 66-year-old was honoured in recognition of his services to sport over the last four decades. He was nominated for the degree by UEL’s School of Health, Sport and Bioscience.

Hearn described the award of a doctorate as “a huge shock” but also a “tremendous honour”.

He said: “It’s a unique occasion. I’ve had a few of them in my life that I’ll never forget and I think this is going to be another one.”

In November 2012, UEL and Leyton Orient became official partners.

The partnership provides important experience for sport science students via internships at Leyton Orient’s academy for young players.

In return, UEL students support players in areas such as strength and conditioning, nutrition, match analysis and fitness testing.

Earlier this year, Hearn sold Leyton Orient to the Italian billionaire mFrancesco Becchetti.

“It’s been some journey,” he added. “I’m still on my journey which has taken me very far.

“It has brought me here to UEL and it makes me proud to see an institution in the East End of London which is of the people and for the people. UEL’s journey is really just beginning and that is exciting, as is receiving this doctorate.”