Honorary degree for actor Sir Ben

Oscar-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley has been awarded an honorary degree by the University of Hull.

Sir Ben, who won an Academy Award for his role as Gandhi, received his degree at the university's Scarborough campus on Friday.

The 64-year-old actor was born in Snainton, near Scarborough, in 1943.

A university spokesman said Sir Ben's career had been "outstanding" and his presence was a "great inspiration to our students".

The actor told BBC Look North: "I spent the first two years of my life in a little village called Snainton which I visited this morning and I walked into the house in which I was born.

"So this is a very, very big day for me, it's a major milestone for me today and I'm very thrilled to be here."

Dean of the Scarborough Campus, Dr Craig Gaskell said: "There is a vibrant arts scene in Scarborough and the university is committed to contributing to that culture.

"Our students are thrilled to be sharing their graduation day with such a high-profile actor."

Sir Ben's portrayal of Gandhi in the 1982 film won him an Academy Award for Best Actor, two Golden Globes and two Bafta awards.

He was knighted in 2001.

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