A DECISION to hold degree ceremonies in one of the region's most historic buildings for the first time this year has been welcomed as "an historic step".

Durham Cathedral will stage 12 ceremonies for nearly 3,000 Durham University graduates over three days, from June 26 to 28.

There will be four congregations, or ceremonies, each day, which will be organised around cathedral services, with time between for visitors to look around.

Durham University's academic registrar, Nicola Parker, said: "This is an historic step for Durham.

"The Dean and Chapter have kindly agreed to make the cathedral available.

"The space and atmosphere are quite unique.

"This is an unmatched setting that promises to make it an exceptional day for everyone involved."

Vice Dean of Durham, Canon Martin Kitchen, said: "The university was part founded by the Dean and Chapter.

"This is a way to mark our continuing relationship, and we look forward to sharing a day of achievement for the graduating students."

The number of graduations has almost doubled over the past ten years, with ceremonies involving Durham and Stockton campus students outgrowing previous venues of Durham Castle and Stockton Parish Church.

Joining this year's graduates will be the retiring Dean of Durham, the Very Reverend John Arnold, who will receive an honorary doctorate of divinity.

Other honorary graduates will include batik artist Miss Thetis Blacker; Dr Bernard Kouchner, a founder member of Medicins sans Frontieres and a former French health minister; Nobel prizewinner Professor Amartya Sen; and astronomer Professor Richard Salisbury Ellis