FORMER Wales rugby player and Newport adventurer Richard Parks is among those who will receive an honorary fellowship from the University of Wales, Newport this week.

The Marie Curie Cancer Care fundraiser, who completed a world first when he summated seven mountains and three poles in seven months last year, will join West End and Broadway Star Caroline Sheen - cousin of Hollywood actor Michael Sheen .

Husband and wife fashion designers Charles and Patricia Lester will also be bestowed the honour, along with former university chaplain Father Mark Soady, who is now Vicar of the Abergavenny Group of Parishes.

Documentary filmmaker, Colin Thomas, who is a regular guest lecturer at the institution will also gain a fellowship at one of the ceremonies, which run from Thursday to Saturday.

An Honorary Fellowship is the highest honour that a university can bestow, and such honours recognise a distinguished contribution made by individuals in various walks of life.