BILLERICAY-born singer Alison Moyet is set to receive an honorary degree from the University of Essex.

Alison, who grew up in Basildon and studied in Southend, will receive the honour at a South Essex College graduation ceremony in September.

The singer, who is best known for hits including Love Resurrection and All Cried Out, studied at the college from 1978, when it was known as Southend Technical College.

She went on to achieve international fame but has remained strong ties to her home county, even calling one of her albums "Essex".

Alison said: "I am exceedingly proud to be awarded this honorary degree. I feel truly privileged to have been born in south east Essex and to have benefited from all the many and varied opportunities it offered me."

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