Accolade from home town uni

Jack Dee is to receive an honorary degree from the University of Winchester today.

The 47-year-old, who grew up in the city, will accept the accolade in recognition of his outstanding contribution to comedy, drama and the performing arts.

Dee said: ‘I'm very pleased, I was hopeless throughout school. I left with four O levels and one A level at grade D.

‘Since then, I have subsequently wished I'd tried harder at school and made more use of the opportunities that were available. So this degree squares the circle in that respect.’

University vice-chancellor Joy Carte said: ‘We’re very pleased to be able to celebrate Jack Dee’s considerable achievements… we’re proud to be honouring a comedian of such high standing.’

Jack Dee was a pupil at The Pilgrims’ School, Montgomery of Alamein School (now Kings’ School) and Peter Symonds College, all in Winchester.

Sir David Frost will also receive an honorary doctorate at today’s ceremony in Winchester Cathedral.

Meanwhile, Lee Evans is to receive an honorary Doctor of Arts from Anglia Ruskin University to recognise his achievements in the entertainment industry on November 24.

Published: 21 Oct 2009