Billy Elliott writer Lee Hall given honorary degree
Tyneside-born Billy Elliott screenwriter Lee Hall has been awarded an honorary degree for his services to culture in the north-east of England.
Mr Hall's screen adaption of the story of a boy from a County Durham pit village who turns to ballet, was nominated for an Oscar.
He has also penned a Broadway play about Northumberland miners who became artists called the Pitmen Painters.
The Open University awarded him a Masters at the Sage in Gateshead.
Mr Hall, 45, who was born in Newcastle, said his "delighted" to receive the honorary degree.
An Open University spokesman said Mr Hall had made a "notable contribution to public services, education and culture in the North East."