ACADEMICS from Bolton Institute celebrated their latest move towards university status yesterday in the first of four degree award ceremonies to take place this week.

Institute vice-principal Wilf Gardner told business students, their families and guests he was delighted with the news that Bolton can now award its own research degrees.

The Privy Council announced the important step earlier this week.

Mr Gardner told the ceremony at the Victoria Hall, Knowsley Street : "I'm delighted to tell you we are a university in everything but name.

"We couldn't have got this far without the support and dedication of students, staff, sponsors and employers.

"I'm glad we can share this news with you."

An Honorary Fellowship was presented to Bolton businessman Joe Foster who built up the Reebok empire with his brother Jeffrey.

The original Reebok 'factory' started by Mr Foster's grandfather in 1895 was sited where the Institute's Deane Campus now stands.

And members of the Institute's business school on a recent visit to Hong Kong were delighted when students over there instantly recognised the Reebok name.

Mr Foster was educated at Whitecroft Secondary Modern School and Bolton Technical College, which later became part of the Institute.

Today TV comedienne Victoria Wood is due to receive an Honorary Fellowship.

Tomorrow award-winning playwright Jim Cartwright will be made a fellow and on Friday former director of British Aerospace Lostock Eric Farnworth will be honoured.

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