An east Belfast man is graduating from Queen’s University today — just a day after his brother was honoured by the university.

David Mitchell (21) was due to graduate this morning with a LLB Single Honours Law degree. His brother Gary (23) graduated yesterday with a Bachelor of Medicine.

A third Mitchell brother, Ralph (25), will graduate from Medicine next week from the University of Warwick, taking the number of Mitchell family graduations this summer to three.

Proud parents Bernie and Ralph Mitchell will join Gary, |who plays rugby for Instonians 1st XV, and younger sister Lauren today to celebrate with David. Speaking in advance of today’s ceremony, Bernie said: “It’s a proud moment for any parent when their offspring graduates, but having all three sons graduate within five days makes it extra special.

“I’ve been trying to get Ralph Snr to buy me three new dresses for over a year now.

“We’re incredibly proud of the boys and can’t wait to see David walk across the Whitla Hall stage.”

Law graduate David plans to spend a year gaining experience with a law firm before applying to the Institute of Professional Legal Studies.

Gary is to complete his medical foundation programme between the Erne, Altnagelvin and Mater hospitals, while continuing to play rugby. Ralph too is to pursue his career as a doctor in Warwick.

Meanwhile, Northern Ireland’s Bombardier chief Michael Ryan will also be honoured by Queen’s University today.

At this afternoon’s ceremony he will be awarded an honorary Doctorate of Science (Engineering) for services to engineering, business and commerce.

A Queen’s graduate, Michael Ryan is vice-president and general manager of Bombardier Aerospace in Northern Ireland.

And Northern Ireland’s former Lord Chief Justice Lord Kerr of Tonaghmore was honoured by Queen’s University today.

At this morning’s ceremony, Lord Kerr was due to receive an honorary Doctorate of Laws for distinction in public service and the legal profession.

Lord Kerr, who was elevated to the House of Lords last week, was Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland from 2004 until June this year. He is also a Queen’s graduate.