TV PRESENTER Vernon Kay wept as he was given an honorary degree in his home-town.

The star said it was the proudest day of his life as he accepted the doctorate from the University of Bolton.

'Tears'

He told an audience: “To be here with you guys and to be given an award by my local town ... I’m not going to carry on because I’m going to burst into tears. I did have a speech prepared, but I’m not going to say it. Thank you so much, it does mean a lot and I appreciate it.”

Students

Kay, who is married to fellow TV presenter Tess Daly, graduated with hundreds of other students at the Bolton Methodist Victoria Hall. He said his mother, father, daughter Phoebe and aunt Irene saw were watching him graduate, but his wife had gone to work with their other daughter, Amber.

'Chuffed'

Before the ceremony, he said: “I am really chuffed because it is a sign of recognition for my work. It feels lovely to be wearing my home town gown. Everyone in the North West has got that welcoming attitude which is very unique.

High School Musical

“Phoebe thinks I am getting a High School Musical award and thinks I am going to do a song and a dance so I hope she thinks I am Troy.”

Model

The former model is the host of began his career on the children’s show FBi and has since fronted T4, Beat The Star, Just The Two Of Us and All Star Family Fortunes. He also hosts a show on BBC Radio 1 every weekend.