Dragon's Den star Hilary Devey an 'honorary yam-yam'

The successful businesswoman and TV personality jokingly declared herself 'an honorary yam-yam' after receiving the award at the university's graduation ceremony yesterday.

Devey addressed the packed Wolverhampton Grand Theatre audience and told postgraduates attending the ceremony: "I hope I'm gazing out on to the next generation of entrepreneurs who will keep this country as great as it is. Sincere congratulations to all of you – I think you're all wonderful."

She said she was absolutely delighted to become a Doctor of Business Administration from the university. It was given to her to recognise her contribution to business and she declared it a 'great privilege and honour'.

Devey, who is originally from Bolton but now lives in Staffordshire, made her fortune launching Pall-Ex, which now has a turnover of £100 million.

She has also become a familiar face appearing on reality shows including Dragon's Den, The Intern, The Secret Millionaire and The Business Inspector.

After the ceremony, she said: "I have been to many universities but Wolverhampton seems one of the most learned and certainly the friendliest. I now consider myself an honorary yam-yam."