Musician given college fellowship

Devon-born Seth Lakeman started out in a band with his brothers

A Devon folk musician has been given an honorary fellowship at Dartington College of Art's graduation ceremony.

The college says the accolade recognises folk singer Seth Lakeman's "cultural work of distinction".

Mr Lakeman, who is from Yelverton, said he was delighted and honoured to receive the fellowship.

He said: "It is an amazing thing to be given and to play a part in the Dartington community, and that they have thought of me in such a way."

He said: "I have written songs and music around Dartmoor and here for such a long time.

"I was fortunate to be brought up here and I will stay here for as long as I can."

His CD, Kitty Jay, which includes songs about Dartmoor and its legends was nominated for the 2005 Mercury Music Prize.

The album was launched in a concert in front of inmates at Dartmoor Prison.

At the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in February he won best album for his work Freedom Fields and was named singer of the year.