Honorary degrees for footballer and polar explorer

Millie Bright was part of the England team who reached the World Cup final in 2023

A top female footballer and a record-breaking polar explorer are among this year's recipients of honorary awards from the University of Derby.

Derbyshire-born Millie Bright, who captained England to the Women’s World Cup final in 2023, is to get a doctorate.

Capt Harpreet Chandi MBE - who became the fastest woman to ski solo to the South Pole - is to be similarly honoured.

They are due to receive their awards in a ceremony alongside thousands of graduates later this month.

Preet Chandi, from Derby, during training in Greenland for a solo South Pole expedition

Bright first played football for her local grassroots team Killamarsh Dynamos and signed professionally for Chelsea in 2015.

She helped the London club capture five FA Women’s Cups and won the UEFA 2022 Women’s Euros with England.

Last year she captained the national team in the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand - and also became Chelsea captain.

She will be made an Honorary Doctor of the University of Derby for her achievements in sport and as an ambassador for Derbyshire.

Capt Harpreet Chandi MBE, from Derby, is to receive the same honour to recognise her record-breaking efforts and work with schools.

The British army medical officer, known as Polar Preet, holds three Guinness World Records for solo expeditions in Antarctica.

She was previously made an Honorary Master of the university in 2022.

Graduation ceremonies will be held at Derby Arena

Each year notable people with a strong connection to the university or the city and county are chosen to receive honours.

They will be awarded alongside thousands of students receiving their degrees at ceremonies held at Derby Arena from 17 to 19 July.

Prof Kathryn Mitchell, vice-chancellor of the University of Derby, said: "Our award ceremonies provide a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this year’s graduates.

"I am also delighted to recognise our honorands for their outstanding achievements and dedication to their individual fields."

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