An Oscar-winning songwriter is to be awarded an honorary degree by a North East university.
Sir Tim is a lifelong supporter of Sunderland's football team
Sir Tim Rice will be presented with an honorary doctorate of letters from Sunderland University.
The 62-year-old, a lifelong Sunderland football fan, is a trustee of the club's sporting foundation, which works with youngsters across the region.
Sir Tim will receive the degree from Chancellor Lord Puttnam at an awards ceremony on Thursday.
He is known throughout the world for his partnership with Andrew Lloyd-Webber, writing songs for hugely successful musicals such as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita.
The honorary doctorate is being awarded in recognition of his outstanding contribution to musical theatre, film and publishing.