Izzard gets honorary degree

Eddie Izzard has been made an honorary Doctor Of Letters for his pro-Europe campaigning.

The comic picked up his degree at the University of East Anglia in Norwich today.

Izzard's dad Harrold attended the ceremony, more than 20 years after his son dropped out of university.

"Wow! I was supposed to graduate when I was 21. My dad has had to wait 20 years so thank you very much UEA," he said.

Language lecturer Roger Baines thanked the transvestite comic for his contribution to promoting modern languages and tolerance of other cultures and lifestyles.

Presenting the award, he said that through humour Izzard had "transcended national barriers".

Published: 10 Jul 2003