Suffolk stars to get honorary degrees

OH I say – John Motson is getting an honorary degree from Suffolk College.

One of Britain's top football commentators, Motty – as he is affectionately known – has long links with Suffolk.

And he is to join a list of dignitaries from the fields of stage, screen, politics and the military in receiving an award.

Comedian Griff Rhys-Jones, West End star Ruthie Henshall and England hockey international Sandie Lister will also be stepping up.

But Motty will be the first of the celebrities to pick up the University of East Anglia award at Suffolk College.

Before picking up his microphone, Motty was educated at Culford School, Bury St Edmunds and has a holiday home in Suffolk for the last 20 years.

The man who has become famous for knowing every football stat worth knowing will receive a Doctorate in Civil Law at a ceremony on Wednesday, October 23.

Griff Rhy-Jones, once best known as one half of a comedy duo with Mel Smith, has broadened his horizons since Alas Smith and Jones ran its course.

Suffolk resident Griff now includes writer, producer and director on his CV and has even made operatic appearances.

Griff is set for a Doctorate of Letters on Thursday, October 24.

Former Northgate High School pupil Ruthie Henshaw has made her name in West End and Broadway productions of CATS, Miss Saigon and Les Miserables.

And befitting her glamorous image, Ruthie's Doctorate of Civil Law will be presented at the Town and Gown ceremony on Thursday, October 24.

Helen Boaden also went on to great things after a Northgate education. Now head of Radio 4, Helen will also receive a Doctorate of Civil Law.

Sandie Lister used her captaincy of Ipswich Ladies hockey club as a stepping stone to international caps.

She is also set for a civil law degree alongside disability consultant Lin Berwick, Chief of Staff General Sir Michael Walker, and former chair of Suffolk College Corporation Eric McCoy.