CUDDLY mascots may be a familiar sight at university graduation ceremonies - but graduate Simon Ellison found himself accompanied by a more lively companion at his own.
Simon, of Chester-le-Street, County Durham, was joined by nine-week-old King Charles spaniel puppy Sam, when he marked the end of his course at Staffordshire University.
Simon, who graduated with a 2.1 in environmental science, said: "We did not have anyone to look after Sam, so we decided to bring him along."
Sam found himself at the centre of attention, but took all the fuss in his stride.
Simon said: "The graduation ceremony was fantastic, as was the rest of my time at Staffordshire University.
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