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Comedian Peter Kay honoured by University

Friday 22 July 2016

Peter Kay returned to his roots today to receive an honorary degree from the University of Salford.

The comedian was given a rapturous reception from graduates and staff at his alma mater, where he completed a HND in Media and Performance in 1996, including a course in stand-up comedy.

As he collected a Doctorate of Arts at Salford’s Lowry Theatre, the Phoenix Nights star said: "I've turned down a few of these awards over the years but I accepted this one because I actually came here to Salford University, so it really means something. 

"When I graduated 20 years ago, I was feeling like many of the graduates here today about going out into the world.

No regrets

"I knew I could make people laugh but I was frightened in case they wouldn't laugh. But I knew I would regret it if I didn't have a go. "

And he joked: "I'm not sure what this Doctorate is exactly - I hope I'm not on a plane when they urgently need a doctor."

Peter was born and raised in Bolton and his course at Salford launched the career of one of the great comics of our times.

After winning the North West Comedian of the Year award in 1997, Peter made his TV breakthrough with the BAFTA award-winning series Phoenix Nights, and since then has become a Guinness World Record holder for the most successful comedy tour ever, playing to over 1.2 million people at 140 shows.

Inspiration

Most recently, at the 2016 BAFTA awards, Peter won Best Male Comedy Performance as well as Best Scripted Comedy for his critically acclaimed comedy series Car Share, co-starring another University of Salford graduate Sian Gibson.

Peter is awarded this honorary doctorate in light of his contributions to television and comedy and his ongoing support for the University, via visits and masterclasses.

Vice-Chancellor of Salford University, Professor Helen Marshall said: “We are delighted to be awarding one of the UK’s most popular comedians and one of our most high-profile alumni, Peter Kay with an honorary doctorate.

“Peter is a huge comedic talent and an inspirational figure to many. Peter has made a major contribution to one of UK plc’s most important sectors - the entertainment industry – and is a strong supporter of up-and-coming talent as demonstrated in his work with our Arts and Media students.”

Famous graduates

Arts and Media courses at the University of Salford have produced a strong of acting and comedic talent including Jason Manford, Christopher Eccleston and Sir Ben Kingsley.