'Patsy' Picks Up QUB Honor

Joanna Lumley star of the hit comedy "Absolutely Fabulous" has been honored by Queen's University Belfast for her long and successful stage and screen career.

The star, was awarded an honorary doctorate and was described as "one of the most talented, versatile and iconic female actresses of our time" by the Pro-Chancellor, Rotha Johnson. Ms Johnston said: "In an outstanding and dazzling career spanning over 30 years Joanna has played many powerful and unforgettable roles on the small and large screen combined with a successful career in theatre and as a writer."

Following on from starring roles in TV programs including "The New Avengers" and "Sapphire and Steel," she said, Joanna went on to redefine British comedy with her portrayal as Patsy in Absolutely Fabulous.

"In what has been called a 'pitch perfect comic performance' Lumley proved her comic credentials," said Ms Johnston.

The actress has strong links to Belfast where she spent much of her time in the 1990s when her husband, Stephen Barlow, was artistic director at Opera Northern Ireland.

She regularly returns to the city, most recently in support of the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society conservation work and to open the Peace for Peace Movement conference in the Waterfront Hall.

She also fits in campaigning for human rights and animal rights and is associated with more than 50 charities.