Comedian Mark Thomas will be awarded an honorary degree by the University of Bradford next week.

Mr Thomas, also known as a political activist, presenter and investigative journalist, will be joined by journalist Peter Taylor, Emma Harrison, owner and founder of A4e limited, and Sir James Crosby, deputy chairman of the FSA, to receive awards during degree ceremonies in the university’s Great Hall.

The university’s Chancellor Imran Khan will present the quartet with their awards.

Professor Mark Cleary, vice-chancellor of the university, said: “We look forward to welcoming this group of honorary graduates.

“It is with great pride that we have been given this opportunity to honour such an array of distinguished colleagues and their achievements are an impressive testament to their talents.”

The ceremonies will take place on Wednesday and Thursday.

Mr Taylor will be made an honorary doctor of the University for his professional contribution as a writer, journalist and documentary maker, in particular for his work on increasing the understanding of Northern Ireland and the growth of international terrorism.

Sir James will be made an honorary doctor for his contribution to financial services and in particular, in recognition of his achievements as chief executive of Halifax, then HBOS and currently his board membership of the FSA.

Mr Thomas will be made an honorary doctor for services to peace and his contribution as a comedian, political activist, presenter and investigative journalist, in particular in recognition of his effective campaigning on the ethics of the arms trade.

Mrs Harrison will be made an honorary doctor for her contribution to the world of business, in particular in the area of workforce training through her company A4e.