COMEDIAN and actress Julia Davis returned to York to collect an honorary degree.

She was at York Minster yesterday to receive her degree from York St John University where she was once a student.

Julia studied for a degree in English and drama at the College of Ripon and York St John and is known for writing and starring in the BBC Three comedy Nighty Night, Hunderby and Camping. She also appeared in the BBC comedy Gavin & Stacey. Her film roles include Wilbur Wants to Kill Himself, Confetti and Four Lions.

It was the final day of three days of graduations in the university’s 175th year.

This year eight honorary degrees were presented over the three days at graduation ceremonies by the university’s chancellor and Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu in front of an audience of graduands, their families and friends, and staff and guests.

Honorary degrees have gone this year to Ryedale TV chef James Martin, paralympian Hannah Cockcroft, cyclist Lizzie Deignan (formerly Armitstead) and professional rugby league footballer Jamie Peacock as well as BBC correspondent Lyse Doucet among others.