Honorary degree for singer Knight

Beverley Knight was born in Wolverhampton in 1973

Soul singer Beverley Knight is being awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Wolverhampton.

The 32-year-old Mobo award winner is from the city and began singing in local Pentecostal church choirs.

The former Highfield School student has notched up 12 Top 40 Hits, including Shoulda Woulda Coulda, Keep This Fire Burning and Come As You Are.

"It's an honour to have bestowed upon me," said Knight, who will receive her degree at a ceremony on Monday.

'Charity work'

Knight first rose to prominence in 1995 with debut album B-Funk.

As well as winning three Mobo awards, she has also been nominated for two Brits and a Mercury Music Prize.

Professor Craig Mahoney, dean of the School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure, said the singer was an excellent role model.

"We are delighted to bestow on Beverley the award of an honorary degree of doctor of music in recognition of her outstanding contribution to music and the local community, and in recognition of her extensive charity work."