THREE figures who have made an outstanding contribution to North-East life are to be presented with honorary degrees over the next two days.

Musician David Crooks, scientist Sir John Pattison and economist Dr John Bridge will receive the accolades from the University of Durham at the Winter Congregation, which takes place in Durham Cathedral tomorrow and Friday.

Mr Crooks, who for more than 40 years has devoted his time to organising music across the region as secretary of Durham Choral Society and a singer with Durham County Opera Group and the North Yorkshire Chorus, will receive an honorary master of music degree.

During a distinguished academic career, Sir John Pattison, served as Dean of the University College London Medical School and chairman of the Physiological Medicine and Infection Board at the Medical Research Council.

However, he is probably best-known as chairman of the Government's advisory committee on BSE and CJD and in 1996 broke the news of the first human cases of variant CJD.

Sir John, a former pupil of Barnard Castle School, who is director of research and development at the Department of Health in England, is to be awarded an honorary doctorate of science

Both will receive their degrees tomorrow, followed on Friday by Dr Bridge, the founding chairman of regional development agency OneNorthEast and visiting professor at Durham Business School.

Dr Bridge will receive an honorary degree of doctor of civil law for his work in the public, private and academic sectors during the past 35 years.

During the congregation, vice- chancellor Sir Kenneth Calman will confer degrees on 1,150 graduates of the university, mostly masters and doctorates.