Superstar DJ Fatboy Slim spoke of his pride at being honoured with a top award by his home-town university and told new graduates to “dare to dream”.

The DJ, real name Norman Cook, collected the University of Brighton’s Alumnus Award for his contribution to the music industry and his support for the institution.

Accompanied by his parents and wife, TV and radio presenter Zoe Ball, Norman, 51, told graduates that today marked the start of them embarking on their dreams.

Norman Cook with wife Zoe Ball (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Norman Cook with wife Zoe Ball (Andrew Matthews/PA)

He said he never got to use “those letters after my name” but the process of earning them “got me where I am today”.

Norman said: “I am immensely proud of my degree, proud of this university, proud of this fine city and immensely proud to be stood here 30 years on receiving this wonderful award in front of the very parents who made it happen.

“Most of all I am proud of you, the graduates, because today is all about you.

Fatboy Slim accepts his award at Brighton university (Andrew Matthews/PA)
Fatboy Slim accepts his award at Brighton university (Andrew Matthews/PA)

“Congratulations. May your lives flourish and prosper and remember; if you do have any nagging dreams, you have now earned the right to perhaps indulge them.”

Norman gained a 2:1 degree in British studies after attending the university, then called Brighton Polytechnic, from 1982 to 1985.

He went on to become one of the country’s leading DJs and producers, responsible for hits including The Rockafeller Skank and Praise You.

He was presented with his award at the Brighton Dome on the first of two days of ceremonies when more than 1,800 university students will graduate.

BBC News presenter Nicholas Owen also received an award. He was made an honorary doctor of letters for his contribution to journalism and services to charity.