Hard-working graduates will congregate at St Albans Cathedral to celebrate their degree successes soon.

About 16,000 students from the University of Hertfordshire will meet for the 2017 Awards Ceremonies between September 4-12 - the event will also be used to present honorary degrees and fellowships, including one to singer Elaine Paige. These are given to people who made particular contributions to academia, charity, or public service. This year, lucky recipients also include British para-athlete David Henson, The Countess of Verulam Dione Grimston, and former chief executive of Saracens Rugby Club Edward Griffiths.

Secretary and registrar, Sue Grant, said: “We are incredibly proud of our graduates and these ceremonies reward the dedication and impressive achievements of our students.

“We hope that they, along with their family and friends, will enjoy a day of celebration in the city of St Albans.”