Former Doctor Who star and BFP columnist Colin Baker is among a host of stars to be given an honorary award at Bucks New University next week.

The television favourite, who lives near High Wycombe, said he was ‘honoured’ to be awarded the honorary doctorate in recognition for his international standing, local profile and links to the university’s course profile.  

He said: “It is rather special when your local university decides you are worthy of this honour. It is very exciting, especially as I never went to university myself when I was younger.

“I was asked a couple of months ago if I would like to receive an honorary degree and of course I said yes. It was completely left field and very exciting. I get to have letters after my name without all the hard work of doing a degree, it is wonderful.

“A few years ago I had my face on a postage stamp to celebrate the anniversary of Doctor Who and now this. I am very pleased.  

“I now have to write a speech for the ceremony. I have to speak to all these young people who are about to go out into the world and try and make money. I have no idea what I am going to say!”

The star, who played the sixth doctor from 1984 to 1986 will receive his degree on Monday, September 7 at the beginning of a week of graduation ceremonies, set to take place in the Wycombe Swan.

Comedian Jo Brand is also set to receive an honorary doctorate on Friday, September 11 in recognition of her career spanning a variety of subjects taught at the university, including performance and mental health nursing.

Other honorary recipients this year include Strictly Come Dancing stars Kevin Clifton and Karen Hauer, who receive honorary degrees and former Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick, who has been awarded an honorary doctorate.

Michael Mosley, science presenter, journalist and executive producer, who presents the BBC Two health series Trust Me, I’m a Doctor will also receive an honorary doctorate.

Professor Rebecca Bunting, Vice-Chancellor of Bucks New University, said: "We are proud and honoured to bestow these honorary awards.

“Our awardees are chosen in recognition of their outstanding achievements in their fields and because they are an inspiration to our graduating students and we are delighted to recognise such a celebrated group of individuals this year.”