Lee Mack and Eddie Izzard get honorary degrees

Lee Mack and Eddie Izzard are to both be awarded with honorary doctorates.

Mack is to receive a Doctor of Humanities degree from his former university, Brunel, while Izzard will get a Doctorate of Letters from Sunderland.

Mack started his comedy career while at Brunel in Uxbridge, West London – as he performed his first gig in 1994 while studying at the west London university.

A spokeswoman said: ‘Lee was always seemingly destined for a career in the entertainment business. He had his first open mike slot while he was a student.

‘We're delighted to be awarding him the honorary degree of Doctor of Humanities in recognition of his outstanding services to the arts.’

He will receive the honour on July 26, while Izzard picks up his next week.

Sunderland’s vice-chancellor, Professor Peter Fidler, said: ‘Our honoraries have all made highly significant contributions within their fields and will inspire our graduates as they celebrate their academic success and embark on their careers.’

Published: 7 Jul 2012