belfasttelegraph

Monday 20 May 2013

Travis star 'thrilled' by honour

Travis frontman Fran Healy has been given an honorary degree in recognition of his musical achievements

Travis frontman Fran Healy has been given an honorary degree in recognition of his musical achievements.

Fran was presented with the accolade by the University of Strathclyde at a graduation ceremony in Glasgow.

The songwriter, who was raised in the city, was joined by more than 100 Humanities and Social Sciences graduates as he was made a Doctor of the University at Barony Hall.

Fran's band Travis is soon to release its seventh studio album, having enjoyed global success with previous releases including 'The Man Who' and 'The Invisible Band', since its first album hit the shelves in 1997.

The singer was also recognised for his charitable work with Save the Children and Make Poverty History.

He said: "When I got the letter telling me about the honorary degree, I called the office and thought it was a windup: 'nope, they are definitely serious,' came the reply. Well, I'm bowled over and truly humbled to be the recipient of such a prestigious award.

"Glasgow is my hometown and where my career as a songwriter began. To be recognised by the University of Strathclyde is a huge honour and I am thrilled and grateful to be returning home to receive this degree."

Joseph Farrell, Emeritus Professor in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, said: "Fran's commitment to his music and charitable work is inspirational and demonstrates what can be achieved through a combination of talent and dedication.

"Not only has he achieved world-wide status as celebrated musician with his band Travis and as a solo artist, he has shown a passion for social justice through his work with Make Poverty History and Save the Children.

"His international outlook and commitment to making the world a fairer and better place for all are values shared by this University, making Fran a fitting recipient of his honorary degree."

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