A touch of rock and roll royalty will be at UCLan’s graduation ceremonies this week.

The University of Central Lancashire is being forced to use one of it’s campus buildings for this year’s graduations.

Usually taking place in Preston Guild Hall the university had to relocate after the venue’s closure.

Students are to don their caps and gowns in the Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre off Marsh Lane.

UCLan has confirmed who will be received honorary fellowships during the ceremonies.

Preston author and historian Gail Newsham is being recognised for her contribution to women’s football.

Gail has dedicated her life to telling the story and raising the profile of the city’s Dick, Kerr Ladies football club. They are the most successful women’s football team of all time.

Read more: A brief history of the Dick, Kerr Ladies football team

During Tuesday’s ceremonies Hesketh Bank-born Kim Hawes is given her award for the contribution to the music industry and tour management.

Kim has toured the Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Madonna, Motorhead, Black Sabbath and Robbie Williams.

And on Wednesday the city will recognise the work of Tony Attard OBE.

He is the chief executive of Burnley-based fabrics supplier Panaz.

Mr Attard sits on the board of Creative Lancashire and is chairman of Marketing Lancashire and UCLan spin-off firm Alusid.

He is being recognised for his contribution to the textile industry and international trade.

More than 16,000 people are expected on the university campus during the graduations which begin on Monday (15 July) and run through to Friday (19 July).

University building’s around the sports centre are being used for gown hire, photography and post-event receptions.

How to take a good graduation photo

The Harris Museum and Art Gallery is opening up its balcony for the graduation week.

UCLan graduates and their families can get a picture from the balcony with the city behind them.

It’s free to do although donations can be made to the Friends of the Harris group if graduates wish.

Read more: Timelapse shows UCLan’s new engineering centre going up