DEDICATED students who have given up hours of their spare time to take part in voluntary work have been honoured by a Baroness.

Baroness Helen Newlove, Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Bolton presented students with certificates, saying: “You should all be incredibly proud of yourselves.”

The university students have achieved The Bolton Award which encourages them to give something back to the community ­— and helps prepare them for life after university.

Twenty-three students were presented with certificates and three ­— Stacey Withington, Mekshabye Burrun and Favour Imade ­— also received special platinum awards for going “above and beyond”.

Stacey, aged 31, from Bolton, took part while studying for a degree in criminology and forensic psychology, working two jobs during the week and at weekends ­— and had a baby in the middle of her course. She achieved a First Class Degree.

She said: “I can’t believe it. I have loved my time at the University of Bolton.”

Student Favour Imade, immersed himself in student and community life since he came to Bolton to study for a civil engineering degree.

He has been captain of the university football first team, president of the Sports Council, founder of the Student Diversity Committee, and got involved with The Potter’s House Church in Bolton town centre.

He said: “I feel like doing all these extra activities has really helped me to know more about myself and I want to help to inspire the younger generation.”

Baroness Newlove told the audience: “Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do something.

“You can be who you want to be and with all this work you have done for the Award you should be proud. You are the true northern powerhouse.”

Julie Bateman, the university’s Head of Careers and Employability, said: “The Award gives you a level of experience and engagement that is invaluable to employers.

“It will help you stand out, so make sure you put it on your CVs.”