Honorary doctorate for Ringo Starr on 86th birthday

Ringo Starr has celebrated his 86th birthday by receiving an honorary degree from the University of Liverpool.

The Beatles star said he was "really honoured" to be conferred as an honorary doctor of music at a private ceremony in Los Angeles.

Starr - whose real name is Sir Richard Starkey - urged all graduates back in his home city to "follow your dreams" like he did when he chose to become a full-time drummer despite his parents' disapproval.

The ceremony took place before Starr's annual "Peace & Love" birthday celebration in Beverly Hills Park.

He said: "I want to thank the University of Liverpool for this honorary degree and for coming all the way to LA to bestow it - I'm really honoured."

While he now lives in California, Starr said he would "always love" his hometown.

"I've been thinking back on my life a lot lately and when I chose to become a drummer full time my family discouraged me," he said.

"And they could have been right but they weren't - it all worked out.

"So to all the graduates back in Liverpool - I send peace and love and want to say don't be afraid to follow your dreams, or take that right turn and see where it goes.

"It could lead to an honorary doctorate from the University of Liverpool."

University of Liverpool chancellor and US district judge Wendy Beetlestone, a graduate of the University of Liverpool, said it was a "great privilege to recognise Ringo, whose influential musical work, particularly in The Beatles, has helped shape the identity and global reputation of Liverpool".

She said Starr had played a "key role" in making the city a place that inspires people to visit and study.

Vice-chancellor Prof Tim Jones said: "This honorary degree expresses our sincere respect for the contribution Ringo has made to music and to Liverpool's heritage and culture."

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