MORE than 2,000 students have graduated from the University of Winchester following a series of stirring and inspirational ceremonies held at the city’s cathedral. 

Many of the Class of 24 were congratulated by the University’s new Chancellor, comedian and actor Hugh Dennis. 

The star of Outnumbered and Mock the Week, who was installed in the honorary post in June, presided over his first graduation ceremonies on Thursday and Friday. 

Resplendent in purple hat and gown, he told graduation guests: “I feel as self-conscious as you do in your academic robes.” 

READ MORE: Students celebrate as they graduate from the University of Winchester

Taking a bow (Image: University of Winchester) Hugh said that his job as a chancellor was “a completely joyful one” to be conducted in the “ridiculously beautiful” surroundings of Winchester Cathedral. 

He joked that the University would have given graduates a love of learning and an ability to climb steep hills. 

Hugh said that many of them would have had moments when they thought completing their degree would be impossible but “…despite that you are here. Step by step, challenge by challenge, you’ve done it and we couldn’t be prouder of you.” 

He concluded: “You can be agents of change. Each of you has a voice and the potential to use that voice for good. I hope you find the courage to do that in the way your fellow Winchester students have done for almost 200 years.”  

Hugh was not the only famous face from TV to appear at graduation.  

Honorary Doctorates were awarded to One Show presenter Roman Kemp and BBC sports presenter JJ Chalmers. 

Popular TV and radio personality Roman has become an advocate for mental health issues since the suicide of a close friend and has made highly-acclaimed TV documentaries on the subject. 

He told his audience that happiness was not about chasing success and that it was different for everyone. “Buying your dream house or car might be your idea of happiness but it could be maintaining the friendships you have made here or being a good sister or brother. 

“Once you understand what your idea of happiness is, your happiness will improve tenfold.” 

SEE ALSO: University of Winchester: Full list of graduating students

Another famous name honoured during graduation week, was record producer Giles Martin (son of George who produced all The Beatles’ records) who was given an Honorary Doctorate of Music. 

 “This is a massive honour and it’s my first music qualification,” said Giles. “I didn’t even take music GCE. You are all far more qualified than me!” 

A highly successful, award-winning producer in his own right, Giles explained that he’d come to his career against his father’s wishes, becoming George’s ‘ears’ when his hearing began to deteriorate.  

He urged graduates to: “Follow your passion and don’t be afraid to fail – that’s part of the journey.”