THE hard work of students at Teesside University’s centre within Darlington College has been recognised at an annual graduation ceremony.

Hundreds of students and their families, along with civic and community leaders, attended the seventh annual graduation ceremony which was held in the atrium at Darlington College.

The graduates received awards in a diverse range of subjects, from degrees in education studies and business management to foundation degrees in hospitality management, journalism and computing.

In addition, some graduates received Darlington College Higher Level professional qualifications.

Principal of Darlington College, Tim Grant told the graduates: “This is a very important milestone to many of you starting out in your careers.

“You can feel justifiably proud of your achievements and I hope you go on to achieve the goals you have set yourself in life.”

Speaking of the university’s recent award of a Queen’s Anniversary Prize, vice-chancellor Professor Graham Henderson , added: “Today you graduate from a University that other people have identified as doing work at a world class level.”

Alastair MacColl, Teesside University’s newly-appointed chair of governors, said: “I’d like to recognise the role that our business community has made in helping make today happen.

“Both the university and the college have very strong links with business and so many employers have helped support the students here today.

“They have chosen to invest in young people and that investment will make a real difference in the years ahead.”

Darlington Mayor, Councillor Charles Johnson, added: “Investment in education by both Teesside University and by Darlington College truly are crucial emblems of the future of our town and I have every confidence that such investment in our community will benefit our town for generations to come.”