A Kent cricket legend, one of the county’s most vocal MPs and a popular musician have all become Honorary Fellows of Canterbury Christ Church University.

Derek Underwood, Ann Widdecombe and Jools Holland were recognised in a ceremony at the Cathedral.

Miss Widdecombe, MP for Maidstone and the Weald and former Shadow Home Secretary said: “This is a great honour and I look forward to my association with the university.”

Mr Underwood, a veteran of 86 tests for his country and MCC president in 2008/09, was equally delighted: “Cricket has been my life and I trust this award will help encourage students to go for gold and realise their dreams.”

Mr Holland, best known as presenter of BBC 2’s Later...with Jools Holland programmes and a former member of the group Squeeze, said: “I’m delighted and proud, particularly in the beautiful and gothic setting of Canterbury Cathedral.

“It’s a great pleasure and significant honour.”