Veteran British rocker Bryan Ferry returned to his alma mater in Newcastle, England on Friday (11Jul14) to receive an honorary doctorate.

The Roxy Music icon graduating from Newcastle University with a bachelor's degree in Fine Art back in the early 1970s and he was back on familiar ground on Friday as he was made a Doctor of Music.

Speaking before the ceremony, Ferry declared, "I feel honoured to have been awarded this doctorate from my former university. I enjoyed my time at Newcastle, and was fortunate to study with some great teachers and fellow students.

"It was an inspiring time to be an art student in Newcastle, and the city also had an exciting music scene. Music and art have guided my life, and it all started at Newcastle University."

Newcastle University's registrar, Dr. John Hogan, adds, "We are delighted to welcome back and honour one of our graduates who has achieved so much in his field.

"Newcastle University has an excellent reputation for education in art and music and Mr. Ferry is a great example and inspiration to our students graduating in those disciplines this summer."

Ferry isn't the only ageing rocker to head back to school this week - AC DC's Brian Johnson collected an honorary degree from nearby Northumbria University on Wednesday (09Jul14).