Graduates joined by music and film stars

The keyboard player was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Arts for his contribution to the music industry as a songwriter, producer and performer.

Music producer Peter Asher, film producer Katy Haber, Dr Yasmin Jetha, Professor Dame Carol Black and Colonel Colin Mason CBE were also honoured.

Mr Rhodes said: “I am very happy to receive this award. I did not expect it at all. My advice for graduates is that if you have a dream, stick with it and try to make it work for as long as you can. It is very gratifying when you succeed.”

The famous faces joined graduates from the Faculty of Creative Arts, Technologies and Science, The Business School and the Health and Social Sciences Faculty at the graduations last week.

University Vice Chancellor Professor Les Ebdon CBE DL said: “This is the time when we celebrate the success of our students.

“I feel privileged and proud to recognise their achievements.

“I wish them every success in the future and I congratulate every single one of them.”