The Great British Sewing Bee judge who has set up a clothing company in Blackburn will be receiving an honorary award from the University of Central Lancashire.

Patrick Grant will take to the stage in Preston to receive an Honorary Fellowship in one of the universities graduation ceremonies.

Patrick, who runs Community Clothing and Cookson and Clegg, both Blackburn based, is being recognised for the significant contribution he has made to the British clothing and textile industry, as well as for supporting the University at events such as the Leaders in Residence Network Launch. He will receive his award on the morning of Friday, July 15.

They will be joined by graphic designer Becky Chilcott, international strategic development specialist Professor John Fyfe CBE and archaeologist Dr Gill Hey who will all accept prestigious Honorary Doctorates.

Former Doctor Who companion, Blue Peter presenter and Crufts’ commentator Peter Purves will also be awarded an honorary fellowship.

The University’s degree and award celebrations, which run from 11 to 15 July on the Preston Campus, will see thousands of students don their academic caps and gowns across 14 graduation ceremonies.

Becky will be honoured for the significant contribution she has made in services to graphic design and the support given to UCLan Publishing while Dr Hey is being recognised for the significant contribution she has made in services to archaeology and support in providing placements for the University’s archaeology students.

Professor Fyfe is being acknowledged for long-term contribution he has made to the UCLan’s Applied Policy Science Unit and to the Samuel Lindow Foundation as well as his contribution to the development of 'partnerships' in community development.

Peter, who was born in New Longton, will receive his award on the morning of Wednesday, July 13 to acknowledge the significant contribution he has made in services to television, acting and presenting and in particular, support for the University’s recent remake of the lost 1960s Doctor Who episode ‘Mission to the Unknown’.