Heartstopper creator to receive honorary degree

Writer Alice Oseman (centre) with the cast of Heartstopper

The creator of the hit Netflix series Heartstopper is to receive an honorary degree in the town where she grew up.

Alice Oseman will be made Doctor of Letters by the University of Kent in a ceremony at Rochester Cathedral on 17 July.

Ms Oseman, who grew up in the Medway towns, wrote the hugely successful Heartstopper graphic novels, which were turned into a highly-rated drama series for TV.

A university spokesperson said the honour was in recognition of her "inspirational contribution" to art and literature, with a particular "notable impact through her work to support the young adult LGBTQ+ community".

Ms Oseman, an award-winning author, illustrator and screenwriter, created, wrote and executive-produced the Emmy-winning adaptation of Heartstopper, which stars Kit Connor and Joe Locke.

Its diverse cast of characters showcased openly gay, bisexual and trans teenagers on-screen.

The show's third series is set to be broadcast this autumn.

Alice Oseman will be made Doctor of Arts at a ceremony at Rochester Cathedral

The University of Kent said it would also be awarding honorary degrees to four other "inspirational individuals" in July.

They are:

• Ben Roddy - Long-standing Canterbury pantomime dame

• Rachael Burford - England rugby player

• Jenny Sealey - Theatre director

• Carol Stewart - Chair of Medway African and Caribbean Association