WET weather failed to dampen spirits as Worcester College of Technology’s brightest and best took part in a graduation ceremony.

More than 190 higher education students walked in smart procession along High Street and into Worcester Cathedral wearing caps and gowns yesterday.

Special guests included the city’s mayor, Councillor Lucy Hodgson, college principal and chief executive Chris Morecroft, Worcester College of Technology corporation chairman Eric Wiles and Gill Howland, Staffordshire University’s pro vice-chancellor.

During the cathedral ceremony there was a welcome from Canon Alvyn Pettersen followed by guest addresses.

Coun Hodgson said the atmosphere inside the cathedral had been excited and praised the “empowering” words of the speakers.

Mr Morecroft said: “They’ve done fantastically well. A lot of students have done HNDs or foundation degrees which can be made up to full degrees.

“Many left school and have then had to start again, so really the message was one of not resting too long on their laurels.”

The college opened in 1939, enrolling 600 students. In 2008 the college enrolled 15,000 students, more than 1,500 of whom will be studying in higher education.

For a full list of graduates see your Worcester News on Tuesday.