STARS from the worlds of TV, entertainment, sport, healthcare and charity will join thousands of University of Gloucestershire graduates celebrating their achievements at this year’s ceremonies.

Taking place from November 19 to 21, the ceremonies will bring together more than 2,000 graduates to celebrate their achievements.

The university will also confer honorary awards for outstanding contributions to the county. This year’s recipients include former English rugby union player and inspirational campaigner, Ed Slater, who will be awarded an Honorary Fellowship; multi-award-winning comedian and author, Bridget Christie, who will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Arts; and long-serving fundraiser and campaigner, Julie Kent MBE, the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, who will receive an Honorary Fellowship.

Dame Clare Marchant, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of the University of Gloucestershire, said: “We are incredibly proud of our dedicated, hard-working and ambitious student community, and the Graduation Ceremonies are a fantastic opportunity to recognise their achievements among the people without whom they could not have done it.

“The ceremonies provide an opportunity to reflect on their time at the University, which will have given them lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences, and valuable connections that will continue to shape their futures. We wish them every success as they embark on successful, rewarding and fulfilling careers as the newest members of our alumni family.

“Our connection with the communities of Gloucestershire remains central to who we are. We are therefore delighted to honour nine exceptional individuals, including close friends of the University, whose remarkable contributions have made a lasting difference to the lives of many people in our county and beyond, as recipients of our honorary doctorates and fellowships this year.”

The ceremonies will be presided over by Lord Michael Bichard, Chancellor of the University, and the Bishop of Gloucester, the Right Reverend Rachel Treweek, Pro-Chancellor of the University.