Blur bassist Alex James awarded honorary degree
The Blur bassist Alex James is set to receive an honorary doctorate from Bournemouth University.
The rock star and writer, who was born in the town, will be made an honorary doctor of arts during a graduation ceremony in the town on 5 November.
James wrote the book, Bit of a Blur, in 2007 and has also turned his hand at farming, producing award-winning cheeses from his Oxfordshire farm.
Blur are regarded as one of the most influential bands of the 1990s.
James will attend a ceremony, along with hundreds of students, at the Bournemouth International Centre.
University vice-chancellor Professor John Vinney said it was fitting James was given the honour because was from Bournemouth.
"Alex James has achieved a great deal of success through his music, his writing, his media work and his entrepreneurial activities," he added.
In 2009 the musician signed a deal to start making cheese for the Prince of Wales, sold through the Duchy of Cornwall estate.
Earlier this year the band went back into the studio to record their first new material as a four-piece for eight years, releasing the single Fool's Day, in aid of Record Store Day, in April.