Creatively, Birmingham is elusive. Unlike many cities, it does not have an identifiable cultural DNA. It has never asserted itself as a centre of radical art or music. Local creatives offer various reasons why. Some take a quiet pride in that anonymity: “We didn’t shout as loud as people from Manchester, but that’s the nature of the city”, the techno …

His illustrious career has spanned four decades which has seen him play stand-up comedian, charity founder, actor, writer, and blues singer. Now, he can add university chancellor to his CV, a move which is hoped to inspire the students of tomorrow. Birmingham City University (BCU) made the announcement this week that Sir Lenny Henry had visited the campus to start …