A Sherwood-born artistic director and Paralympics opening ceremony co-director Jenny Sealey MBE has been given an honorary degree by Middlesex University in London.
It was given in recognition of her achievements in performing arts and contribution to the disability arts.
Ms Sealey, who is originally from Sherwood, went deaf following a head injury at the age of seven.
She has been the Artistic Director of the disabled-led Graeae Theatre Company since 1997. Last year she co-directed the London 2012 Paralympics Opening Ceremony alongside Bradley Hemmings, and was an Artistic Advisor for the Unlimited 2012 Festival which celebrated the work of deaf and disabled artists.
She was awarded an MBE in the Queen's Honours list in 2009 for services to disability arts and has previously won the Liberty Human Rights Arts Award.
Middlesex University Vice-Chancellor Professor Michael Driscoll said: "Jenny's career achievements, alongside her work with deaf and disabled artists and continuous campaigning for disabled peoples' rights, makes her a true inspiration to the students graduating today. Last year she had the honour of co-directing a memorable London 2012 Paralympics Opening Ceremony, which is testament to her talent and drive."
Ms Sealey said: "I am so lucky to be deaf as this has given me my fighting spirit and drive to make the world of theatre inclusive and accessible. I think each and everyone one of us has the same responsibility and together we can make an impact."
She collected her honorary degree at a ceremony at Middlesex University's Hendon campus on Friday.
