They might have risen to the top of the Hollywood elite, but stars James McAvoy and Richard Attenborough were yesterday thrilled to be honoured by the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (RSAMD).

They might have risen to the top of the Hollywood elite, but stars James McAvoy and Richard Attenborough were yesterday thrilled to be honoured by the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama (RSAMD).

McAvoy, RSAMD alumnus and star of films such as Atonement and Wanted, sheepishly admitted that he had missed his own graduation ceremony after completing his studies in Glasgow eight years ago.

Returning to his former college, the 29-year-old star said he was "completely honoured" to receive a fellowship. McAvoy, who has been heavily involved in a recent campaign to protect the RSAMD from funding cuts, said: "The academy has been involved in my life a lot, from before I even knew of it, just through music teachers who studied here and then through a short time at youth theatre."

Lord Attenborough, 85, who spent the day giving a masterclass to students, said the honour meant "a tremendous amount" to him.

The Oscar-winning director, producer and actor was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Drama by the academy which dates back to 1847.

He said: "I was at Rada, more years ago than I care to admit to, and I was on the council for a number of years and am president. So to receive an honour from an academy that is much older than Rada is marvellous.

"The whole attitude to Scottish arts is one of great admiration."

RSAMD principal John Wallace said: "We are delighted that one of the most powerful architects of the British film industry, Lord Attenborough, has come to work with our fabulous students today and we are saluting his contribution to our culture, society and economy by awarding him this evening."