Engelbert Humperdinck receives honour

Singer Engelbert Humperdinck has received an honorary degree from his home town of Leicester.

Humperdinck was given the honour to become a Doctor of Music today by the University of Leicester in the De Montfort Hall in the city.

Accepting the award Humperdinck, whose real name is Arnold George Dorsey, said: "I have performed on this stage many times in the past but today is a very proud moment in my life.

"It gives me a great thrill as an entertainer to be honoured by the University of Leicester in my home town.

"My fans around the world will be delighted to learn I am receiving this prestigious honour and recognition from the city to which I frequently return, to visit my family, my home and my friends.

"As an entertainer I will always be Engelbert Humperdinck. To the citizens of this city, I will proudly remain a son of Leicester."

Professor Stewart Petersen, of the University of Leicester, said: "Honorary degrees are a recognition of distinction and there is no doubt Engelbert is a man of distinction.

"He is one of Leicester's most famous sons and has made a huge contribution, both to popular music and entertainment, and through his work with charities."