SINGER Guy Garvey is to be awarded an honorary degree by Manchester Metropolitan University.

The Bury-born Elbow frontman will become an honorary Doctor of Arts at the graduation ceremony for the Faculty of Art and Design on July 11, in recognition of his contribution to music and charity.

Guy, who lives in Prestwich, met his bandmates while studying at Stand College. Their fourth album, The Seldom Seen Kid, won the Mercury Music Prize, two Ivor Novello song-writing aw-ards and a Brit award for Best British Band, among many other plaudits.

The 38-year-old, who also presents a show on BBC 6 Music, said: “I was having an ‘Oh my God I’m almost 40 moment’ when I opened the letter from the Vice-Chancellor of Manchester Metropolitan University. What an unexpected gift! What an honour!

“I’m one of seven kids and the only one that didn’t go to university as I decided to stay in the band. My mum stuck a picture of me singing on the degree wall at home many years ago, but now I can finally join the clan wearing the right outfit.

“The young people who come to Manchester and Salford to be educated, teach or research are the life blood that keeps this city’s heart pumping.

“I know many tutors and students from the university and know what an amazing university it is. I’m thrilled and very proud to be honoured by them in this way.”

Professor David Crow, Dean of the Faculty of Art and Design, said: “Guy is best known for his song writing and performing with multi award winning band, Elbow, but many people may not be aware of Guy’s involvement with charity work.”

He is a patron of the Manchester charity MAG (Mines Advisory Group), which is responsible for clearing war zones of mines and munitions worldwide and the Patron of the Manchester Craft and Design Centre.

Prof Crow added: “He is a great ambassador for the region, our staff and, most importantly, our students.”

Also receiving honorary degrees are fashion designer Sarah Burton and television presenter Gethin Jones.