RICKY Ross is pictured with his mother after being presented with an honorary degree from Abertay University.

The Deacon Blue singer was awarded an honorary doctorate of arts after being nominated by lecturer Mhairi Thurston, who grew up and performed with him when they were both teenagers.

She said: "I'm really proud of Ricky's achievements. He really deserves this honour - he's always been immensely talented, not just in music, but all the arts."