MORE than 135 students from University Centre St Helens graduated on Saturday in a ceremony presided over by award-winning author and screenwriter, Frank Cottrell-Boyce and former controller of ITV daytime, Fiona Keenaghan.

Taking place in St Helens Parish Church on Saturday, October 13, the day began with the annual procession by Parr Band and Valley Brass Band who accompanied graduates to the church, with shoppers applauding the students as they walked by.

College CEO, Dr Jette Burford, opened proceedings, before Frank Cottrell-Boyce, celebrated for his role in creating the opening ceremony of the London Olympic Games in 2012, was welcomed to the stage, offering congratulations and advice to the students, reminding them of the value of perseverance and the need to embrace change, but highlighting importance of being kind to others.

A second address, from St Helens born, multi-award winner and former Controller of Daytime TV for ITV, Fiona Keenaghan, who encouraged graduates to reach for their goals adding “never be limited by someone else’s imagination.”

Each year, St Helens Rotary Club present the Rotary Club Award to graduate who has demonstrated dedication and commitment in overcoming adversity, to obtain their qualification. This year’s award was presented to PGCE graduate, Helena Denholm, who carried on with her diploma despite her mum being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer just weeks into starting the course and completing the course after her mum died in April

2018.