THE head of a Bolton refuge dedicated to supporting women, families, children, and young people affected by domestic violence was recognised for her work with an honorary doctorate from the University of Bolton.

Gill Smallwood, Chief Executive of Fortalice, was awarded a Doctor of the University for her outstanding contribution to Women and Children.

She said: “I am honoured, humbled and delighted to receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Bolton.”

Others recognised at the graduation ceremonies included Bolton South East MP Yasmin Qureshi.

She said: "The University plays a fundamental role in the lives of people in Bolton.

“I would like to thank the staff of the University for preparing students for a world after university.”

Ms Qureshi received the Honorary Doctorate from the Chancellor of the University of Bolton, the Earl of St Andrews.

Bolton West MP Chris Green received an Honorary Doctorate,together with Chief Executive of Bolton Council, Tony Oakman, Ken Heathcote; hotelier Stuart Procter, The Secretary General of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award John May, hotelier Harpal Singh Matharu, Stephen Critchlow, CEO and founder of Evergreen and Bolton businessman Tasos Pattichis, owns the Olympus Fish and Chip Restaurant in the town centre.