ROSSENDALE actress Jane Horrocks is amongst the recipients receiving honorary degrees this summer from Edge Hill University.

Renowned film director Terence Davies, actress Dame Janet Suzman and The Farm’s Peter Hooton are other esteemed figures set to receive honorary degrees during this year’s graduation.

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Each of the six recipients, leaders in a range of areas spanning music, theatre, film, law and neuroscience, will be recognised by Edge Hill for the contribution they have made to society, which resonates with the university’s teaching and research.

Jane Horrocks, who attended Balladen Primary School in Rawtenstall, is a highly accomplished stage, film and TV actor and singer and now a household name.

Born in Rawtenstall in 1964, her strong Lancashire accent remains an essential part of her identity. After taking a drama course at Oldham Technical College, Jane was accepted at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) and, on graduation, joined the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Winning critical acclaim for her role as Nicola in Mike Leigh’s film Life is Sweet (1991), Jane came to national prominence in the stage show The Rise and Fall of Little Voice (1998), a musical play written specially for her by Jim Cartwright.

She has also received best actress nominations from BAFTA, BIFA and the Golden Globes.

On television, Jane is perhaps best known for her role as the ditsy secretary Bubble in Absolutely Fabulous, which aired on the BBC from 1992 to 2003.

Most recently, Jane has reverted to the stage to forward her career.

Edge Hill’s vice-chancellor Dr John Cater said: “Each year we seek to recognise individuals whose outstanding achievements resonate with the ethos of Edge Hill University.

“This summer we are delighted to recognise the contributions of the Absolutely Fabulous actor, comedian and singer Jane Horrocks.

“We are privileged and delighted to welcome them as part of the university community, and very much look forward to next month’s ceremonies.”

Honorary doctorates will be conferred on the individuals during Edge Hill University’s graduation ceremonies at the Ormskirk campus between July 20-24.