AWARD-WINNING actress Alison Steadman and TV producer Phil Redmond joined Liverpool graduates to receive honours from a city university.

Anfield-raised Alison returned to the city of her birth to be presented with an honorary fellowship from Liverpool John Moores University.

The 63-year-old was accompanied by her son Leo, sisters Sylvia and Pamela and three close friends when she attended the ceremony at the city’s Anglican Cathedral yesterday.

The Gavin and Stacey star, whose extensive career includes stage, film, and TV appearances, was recognised for her “outstanding and sustained contributions to performing arts”.

She said: “Being a native, it means a lot to come back and receive this fellowship, particularly in the cathedral, which is a landmark for Liverpool.

“I feel proud. I’m sorry my mum and dad can’t be here, they would have been very proud.”

She said: “I was involved with the Liverpool Youth Theatre in the early 60s, that was the gateway for me to go to drama school. The facilities offered to students [at Liverpool JMU] are first class, with creative and inspiring courses. It is fantastic the university has a network of partners in the performing arts and media industry, allowing students to establish links for their career development.

“I am pleased to be a supporter of The Liverpool Screen School in its work to help people succeed through qualifications and experience.”