WORLD class boxer Amir Khan and other top international sports stars will be honoured by the University of Bolton at its graduation celebrations next week.

Amir is one of a number of top names in sport to receive an Honorary Doctorate at this year’s degree congregation ceremonies.

High profile figures in the community, business and the world of academia will also be donning the university robes to be celebrated for their achievements.

And  this year, the university will install its first Pro Chancellor, Brett Warburton, executive director of Warburtons, and he will receive and honorary doctorate in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the food industry and scientific research.

Amir, who is being recognised for his outstanding contribution to sport and charity, will be joined by cousin, cricketer Sajid Mahmood, who has played for England and Lancashire.

One of Britain’s most decorated Paralympians Tony Griffin – who won 14 gold medals during his career – will receive the honour, as well as former professional footballer Dave Whelan who will be recognised for his outstanding contribution to sport and charity.

Tracey Neville, the head coach of the England netball team, will follow in her brother Gary’s footsteps to receive an honorary award.

Phil Gartside, chairman of Bolton Wanderers Football Club, will be recognised for outstanding contribution to the Bolton community, football and education.

Baroness Warsi, the first Muslim Cabinet Minister will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate for her contribution to politics.

Group managing editor of Trinity Mirror and established broadcaster Eamonn O’Neal will receive the honour for his contribution to charity and the media.

Former Mayor, Cllr Martin Donaghy, will robe up to be celebrated for his contribution to the university and to Bolton.

Alan Walsh, the area coroner for Manchester West who lives in Bolton, will be awarded an Honorary Doctorate for his contribution to the town of Bolton.

Other recipients of the highest award a university can bestow are  Dr Christopher Brookes, consultant of emergency medicine at Salford Royal Foundation Trust; His Honour Iain Hamilton, a former senior circuit judge; and Dr Chris Minta, who has worked at the university for 55 years, will receive a Lifetime Fellowship Award.

This year’s ceremonies mark the close of a special celebratory year in the 190 year history of the University of Bolton.

The 190th year celebrations began in July 2014 with a dedicated ceremony to install a new Chancellor of the University, The Rt Hon Sir Ernest Ryder PC TD.

Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton, Professor George  Holmes said: “This has been a special year for the University and I am delighted to see its successful completion with the installation of our first Pro Chancellor.

“Brett Warburton is an exceptional man from an exceptional company. We are delighted to welcome him to our Bolton family.

“Our honorary graduands to the University are inspirational people, joining us at the celebration of what inspires us – our students’ success. We look forward to welcoming them all to the University.”