Preston’s university has secured its highest ever level of nominations for the Times Higher Education Awards.

The University of Central Lancashire has been recognised, amongst other things, for opening its doors to nearly 650 medical students who were displaced by Hurricane Irma in September last year.

This category the International Collaboration of the Year is one of five the university has been put in for, the best it has ever seen.

Pro vice-chancellor for external relations Joel Arber said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for us to have been shortlisted for five awards, that’s a record for us and one we’re all delighted with. The wide range of shortlisted categories is further proof of our aim to grow a vibrant community of academic innovators and maximise our positive social, environmental and economic impact locally, nationally and globally.”

What else is UCLan nominated for?

Outstanding entrepreneurial award – reflects the university’s work to help its students set up their own businesses and be what it claims ‘one of the most innovative institutions in the higher education sector’

Excellence and Innovation in the Arts award – this is for the work of UCLan Publishing who have been working with authors such as Jacqueline Wilson, Jane Johnson and AJ Hartley to give students real-world experience in the publishing industry. Cold Bath Street, published by the university, has become a national bestseller.

Read more: Cold Bath Street is a perfect Preston ghost story

Most Innovative Contribution to Business-University collaboration – a partnership between UCLan and Preston-based Recycling Lives has turned automotive shredder residue from old vehicles into a saleable product, and diverted material away from landfill.

Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community category – the university’s In The City shop in Lune Street has been recognised for running a range of events and initiatives in the city.

The awards take place at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London on 29 November.