A PERFORMANCE poet turned professor was the guest of honour at a presentation ceremony for Uxbridge College’s GCSE pupils.

Benjamin Zephaniah, professor of poetry and creative writing at Brunel University, spoke about his life before he gave out achievement and attendance certificates to students.

He was joined by fellow Brunel colleague Dr Beverley Crooks, Uxbridge College’s chair of corporation.

Dr Alastair Mullins, head of Uxbridge College Academy, which teaches A-levels and GCSEs, said: “This day was made extra special by the presence of Benjamin Zephaniah and the energy and inspiration he brought to the room. We’re now looking forward to our GCSE pupils taking that away and applying it to their studies.”

Professor Zephaniah made his name as a Dub (reggae) Poet in the 1980s and is also a musician.