An actor from Blackburn is one of three people set to be honoured by the University of Central Lancashire next week.

Steve Pemberton, co-creator of The League of Gentlemen and Inside No. 9, Doctor Who companion Mandip Gill, and Alex Hartley, retired Lancashire and England bowler turned commentator, will all take to the stage next week to receive honorary fellowships.

The fellowships are awarded on an annual basis in recognition of individuals for their achievements.

Steve is being recognised for his significant contribution to acting, writing and directing.

The co-creator, co-writer and actor in the hugely popular The League of Gentlemen will receive his award on Friday.

He also co-created and starred in dark comedies Inside No. 9 and Psychoville, both broadcast on the BBC.

He appeared in Happy Valley and Benidorm and most recently he was a contestant on Channel 4’s Taskmaster.

Honorary doctorates will also be conferred on British and Irish Lions medic Dr James Robson MBE and Adrian Anderson, former chief executive of the University Vocational Awards Council.

The university’s degree and award celebrations will take place from July 8 to 12 in the Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre. More than 4,000 students will don their academic caps and gowns across 14 graduation ceremonies.

Post-event celebrations for the graduates and their guests will take place on University Square, in the heart of the Preston Campus.

Live streaming will be available on the University’s YouTube channel to ensure family and friends around the world can witness the very special occasion.