The leading surgeon who set up the Burns Unit in the aftermath of the Valley Parade fire will be awarded an honorary degree at Bradford University next week.

Professor David Sharpe, founder of the Bradford Plastic Surgery and Burns Unit, is among a number of high-achievers in the district due to be honoured at the ceremony.

He will receive an honorary doctor of science for his work as an honorary professor at the university and director of the burns unit at Bradford and Airedale Teaching Primary Care Trust. Professor Sharpe has a strong record in developing the next generation of plastic surgeons.

He was the lead surgeon during the aftermath of the Bradford City fire 25 years ago and has continued to provide support to the region by improving patient care through innovation.

Other honorary graduates include the Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Dr Ingrid Roscoe, chief executive of Global Synergy Solutions, Zulfi Hussain, entrepreneur Lawrence Tomlinson and Trevor Higgins – partnership director at British Telecom.

University vice chancellor Professor Mark Cleary said: “We are looking forward to honouring these inspirational individuals for their achievements in business, society and education.

“This group of honorary graduates have such an array of distinguished talents it will be a pleasure for the university to honour them in this way.”

The honorary graduates will receive their awards during degree ceremonies taking place in the university’s Great Hall at the City Campus next Wednesday and Thursday.