An award-winning Renfrewshire-based crime writer has received an honorary doctorate from the University of the West of Scotland (UWS).

Alex Gray, who has published 21 crime novels, was recognised at the university's winter graduations.

The author, who is also the co-founder of the crime-writing festival Bloody Scotland, was celebrated at a ceremony at Paisley Abbey on Thursday, November 14.

Dr Christopher O’Donnell, head of the division of psychology and social work at UWS, delivered Ms Gray's laureation, which reflected on her career as one of Scotland’s most well-known authors.

She said: "I’m absolutely thrilled to receive this award from UWS.

"Writing is my passion and to be celebrated for doing something I love is just incredible.

"My advice for students graduating today is to follow your own dreams, which UWS facilitates for all of its students – no matter their individual circumstances and backgrounds.

"It has been especially pleasing to be recognised by a university local to where I call home, and one that is changing the lives of those in its local communities."

Professor James Miller, principal and vice-chancellor of UWS, said: "Graduation is the most important event in our university calendar, giving us the opportunity to showcase the fantastic achievements of our students and celebrate each and every one of their successes amongst their families and peers.

"As part of the ceremony, we were delighted to present Alex Gray with this honorary doctorate.

"Alex is the perfect example to our students of someone who has made their dreams a reality and has built a very successful writing career from something she’s truly passionate about."