A west Belfast actress who is well known for her roles in major movies and on highly successful TV programmes is among those being honoured at Queen's University.

Geraldine Hughes, who is originally from Divis Flats, is to be honoured for her television, stage and movie roles.

She is best known as the female lead Marie in 2006's film, Rocky Balboa, and she also wrote and performed a one-woman show 'Belfast Blues' in New York City and appeared on television on ER and Profiler, among others.

Ms Hughes will receive a doctorate for services to the performing arts.

Dr Apj Abdul Kalam, who was President of India from 2002 to 2007, receives a doctorate for public service.

The presentations will take place at the university's graduation ceremonies later this year.

Also being honoured were the BBC's Orla Guerin and Coca-Cola Chairman Neville Isdell, who is from Northern Ireland.

Lord Chief Justice Brian Kerr, who graduated from the Belfast university 40 years ago, will also be recognised for distinction in public service and the legal profession.

A doctorate for public service also goes to Francis Campbell, from Newry, who was a policy adviser and a private secretary to Tony Blair when he was Prime Minister.

Those who will be awarded doctorates for services to business and commerce include Michael Ryan, Vice-President and General Manager of Bombardier aerospace and Michael Smurfit, former Chairman of packaging company the Smurfitt Kappa Group.

(BMcC/JM)