A writer whose story of a working-class boy from the industrial North East gained numerous accolades has himself been honoured.

Lee Hall is to receive an honorary award from the University of Sunderland, recognising his contribution to arts and culture in the North East.

Mr Hall, who wrote the coming-of-age comedy-drama Billy Elliot, is to be presented with an Honorary Doctorate of Arts at the university’s graduation ceremony in London’s historic Southwark Cathedral on Thursday (November 9).

The Northern Echo: Billy Elliot writer Lee Hall is to receive an honorary award from the University of SunderlandBilly Elliot writer Lee Hall is to receive an honorary award from the University of Sunderland (Image: UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND)

The Newcastle-born writer said he is “thrilled and humbled” to be receiving the award, especially given its close association with Max Roberts, Visiting Professor of Theatre Studies, film producer Lord David Putnam, and with Live Theatre.

“The honorary award is a recognition of what I’ve done in my career, but also a recognition of the work, community, and aspiration of North East culture. The award is both individual and collective,” he said.

Mr Hall, who has been closely involved in North East theatre and culture for many decades, celebrates the region – recognising it as a “fountain of cultural inspiration” - and is a strong believer in “art being a central part of civic life”.

His works, including Billy Elliot and the play The Pitmen Painters, draw on the region’s rich, cultural heritage and its industrial history.

Other works of his include writing the script for the play Shakespeare in Love, and the screenplay for the Elton John biographical award-winning film, Rocketman.

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But it was his screenplay for Billy Elliot, the working class boy who aspires to be a ballet dancer, for which he remains best known.

The film later became a hit musical, which premiered in 2005 at London’s Victoria Palace Theatre.

Seen by an audience of more than 12 million people, across five continents, it has earned many awards, including multiple Tony Awards and a Laurence Olivier Award.

The Northern Echo: Lee Hall, top left, and director Stephen Daldry with actors in the musical version of Billy Elliot at a 2005 photocallLee Hall, top left, and director Stephen Daldry with actors in the musical version of Billy Elliot at a 2005 photocall (Image: PRESS ASSOCIATION)