Dragon’s Den star James Caan will be among those recognised with honorary degrees at the University of Bradford’s award ceremonies this week.

Mr Caan, who will become a Doctor of the University in recognition of his long-standing charitable work, will join entrepreneur Mumtaz Khan Akbar, Baroness Margaret Eaton of Cottingley, economist Madam Wang Yuan and businessman Sir Anwar Perez as they are recognised by the university for their achievements.

Councillor Eaton (Con, Bingley Rural) will receive a Doctor of Education for her contribution to the city, region and local government of Bradford, while Mr Khan, owner of Bradford-based food group Mumtaz, will receive a Doctor of the University for his support of the district and his determination to raise the profile of the city.

The award ceremonies will take place at the university tomorrow and on Thursday.

The university’s vice-chancellor, Professor Mark Cleary, said: “The University of Bradford is looking forward to welcoming our honorary graduands to the campus.

“It is with great pride that we will honour them for their achievements and charitable contributions to the wider community, which are an impressive testament to their talents.”

Madam Wang Yuan will receive a Doctor of the University for her contributions to international financial development and her continuing support for the university.

She graduated from the University of Bradford in the late eighties with an MSc in national development and project planning.

Since 1990, she has been engaged in professional areas of economic policy and financial regulation and operation. She has worked as the Economic Officer at the World Bank, Director of International Department of the Central Bank of China and China Policy Advisor in Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission.

Sir Anwar Pervez will receive the Doctor of Laws degree in recognition of his commitment to business and support of charities.

Born in 1935, Sir Pervez moved to the UK at the age of 21 and started his career as a bus driver in Bradford. In 1963 he established his first convenience store in London’s Earl Court. In 1976 Sir Anwar opened Bestway’s first wholesale warehouse in Acton, West London. Bestway has emerged as the UK’s second largest cash and carry operator in terms of turnover.