Elton honoured for services to comedy

Ben Elton has picked up an honorary degree for his services to comedy.

He returned to Manchester University to collect his Doctor of Letters, 23 years after graduating.

Music scholar Michael Kennedy and soprano Amanda Roocroft also gained awards, marking a £6 million refit of the School of Music and Drama.

Elton, who studied alongside Rik Mayall and Ade Edmondson, told Manchester Online: "This is a great honour and it is a very exciting day for me.

"It is very poignant to see this new facility and the work of students. There is an exciting vibe all over the building."

Published: 22 Oct 2003