A familiar face from Easton and Otley College joined students on stage to celebrate an achievement of his own.
Former principal of the college, David Lawrence, was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of East Anglia yesterday to acknowledge his dedication to education services in the county.
Joining 50 graduates in their robes at Easton College for the annual ceremony, he said he was 'very honoured' by the experience.
Students graduated from courses including agriculture, animal science and wildlife management.
Mr Lawrence said: 'It's really great to receive this award, I never expected it. It is something that has come out of the blue and I'm deeply honoured. It means a great deal to me.
'I've learnt many things during my career. I've learnt that aptitude, enthusiasm and the ability to get on with people is always important.
'You have to work hard, be honest and never ask someone to do a job that you wouldn't do yourself.'
Being appointed principal 22 years ago, he was involved in the merging of Easton and Otley colleges in 2012 and had a career in agriculture earlier in life.
David Henley, the current principal of Easton and Otley college, said: 'During his time at the college he has transformed Easton and Otley College into a beacon of land-based training in the eastern region that is nationally rated in the top 10.'
If you have a story, email reporter Jemma Walker at jemma.walker@archant.co.uk
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