A record number of students, from the full range of subjects and qualifications offered at the University of Chester, gathered together to celebrate their academic achievements over four days of graduation this week.

More than 3,100 students will be in the presence of eminent figures in their field, including a highly respected chef, national soap actor and leading figures in business and health.

Video and images by Craig Colville

The graduands enjoyed a special day to remember and joined Chester’s numerous alumni when they graduated across 11 ceremonies at Chester Cathedral from Tuesday, November 6 to Friday, November 9.

The graduates-to-be were congratulated by chancellor Gyles Brandreth who was the presiding officer, having taken on the role in 2017. He took part in ceremonies two, three, four, five, six and 10, with Professor Tim Wheeler, the university’s vice-chancellor, as presiding officer at ceremonies one, seven, eight, nine and 11, as well as attending all the ceremonies.

Professor Wheeler, said: “Each graduation ceremony in a testament to all the hard work and dedication of our graduates. They have achieved outstanding outcomes during their time at the University of Chester. We congratulate them and wish them every success in their future careers.

“We are immensely proud to see our latest graduates gather with their family and friends to celebrate this special occasion. We aim to make it one of the most memorable of their lives set here in the beautiful surroundings of Chester Cathedral.

“We are also delighted to welcome 13 outstanding individuals, who have given so much to the local community and society as a whole. They thoroughly deserve their honorary degrees that reflect all that they have achieved. We are delighted to have them join us on these special occasions.”

Former Coronation Street star Ian Puleston-Davies was among the many to be celebrated at the four-day ceremony.

The North Wales actor - who supports mental health charities - was receiving an honorary degree of Doctor of Letters (DLitt) in recognition of his outstanding contribution to drama and the arts.

“To be invited to receive an honorary degree from the University of Chester is one of the most gratifying roles that I have ever been given," said Mr Puleston-Davies, who is also a patron of The Hospice of the Good Shepherd in Backford.

"As a native Welshman who grew up not far from here, it is particularly special to receive such recognition from the city university round the corner from where I now live."