She accepted the honorary doctorate at a graduation ceremony attended by students from the literature, film and theatre studies department as well as those from Loughton's East 15 Acting School, which was made part of the university three years ago. In her acceptance speech, Dame Helen said she was delighted with the honour and congratulated the students.
Afterwards, she told the Evening Gazette how pleased she was that she had been singled out for the honour. She said: "I am proud to be the bearer of the badge Essex girl and I am delighted to have got this award."
