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More than 1,100 students, from all the University's four faculties, will be graduating across seven ceremonies to be held at Luton's St Mary's Church between Tuesday 18 November and Thursday 20 November.

The first to receive an honorary award is Guardian columnist Polly Toynbee, who is being presented with a Doctor of Arts, for her contribution to journalism at a ceremony also recognising the achievements of students from the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences.

One of the most recognisable names to receive an honorary award throughout the week is Al Murray, best known for his character The Pub Landlord.

Al will be a made an Honorary Master of Arts for his outstanding contribution to comedy on Thursday 20 November.

The Rt Hon David Willetts MP will be made an Honorary Doctor of Arts in recognition of his outstanding contribution to UK higher education at the same ceremony, which will celebrate the achievements of graduates from the Business School.

Other honorary awards are being presented to the following:

• Former High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and current Luton Town Vice President Jack Sapsworth, MBE DL – to be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Business Administration for his outstanding contribution to fundraising and charity work.
• Councillor Roy Davis, who has represented the borough of Northwell for three decades and was Leader of the Council when it became a Unitary Authority. Roy will be awarded a Doctor of Business Administration in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the life and community of Luton.

In attendance at a ceremony on Wednesday 19 November will be BAFTA award winning, former Science and Medical Editor for ITV News Dr Lawrence McGinty. He is to be the Guest of Honour at a ceremony for Creative Arts, Technologies and Science students.

Dr McGinty will also open the University's new state-of-the-art science laboratories during his visit.