Former Deep Purple keyboardist Jon Lord has received the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Music from the University of Leicester.

“Jon Lord is one of British music’s most eclectic and talented instrumentalists. There are no signs of his creative talents abating.”

These words rounded off a detailed account of Jon Lord’s musical life that preceded Jon being presented with the Honorary Degree on July 15 at the University’s De Montfort Hall.

- "It is humbling to hear your life retold with such accuracy," he said in his acceptance speech, where he also spoke fondly of his musical childhood in Leicester.

His first concert was experience was in the same hall where the presentation ceremony was being held.

The last time Jon Lord visited the University of Leicester was 41 years ago when Deep Purple played at the Students’ Union on February 7, 1970.

WATCH THE CEREMONY HERE