Astronaut Helen Sharman was given an honorary doctorate at Kingston University as hundreds of students gathered for graduation ceremonies throughout the week.

Hundreds of students donned their caps and gowns for graduation ceremonies at the Rose Theatre.

Ms Sharman, the first Britain to enter space, was given a doctorate for her contribution to the public understanding of science, while Oscar-nominated screenwriter Nicky Hornby was alo given an honorary degree for his contribution to literature.

Ms Sharman said: ““I really cherish this honour and look forward to a long association with Kingston University and science, engineering and computing in particular.

“While graduation is indeed a celebration of success, it also marks the beginning of a new chapter in a world that is full of opportunities.

“My degree has transformed my life. At my graduation I could not have known the opportunities a degree would allow me to explore or the dreams it would allow me to follow.”

Student Tanya Durrant said: “It's been quite an overwhelming day but great to see everyone again. We created a really nice bond together on our course and we'll definitely be staying in touch."