THE outstanding achievements of over 400 degree, foundation degree, HNC and postgraduate students from Grwp Llandrillo Menai’s three colleges were celebrated at a ceremony marking the end of the academic year.

Representatives from the colleges’ associate and partner universities in both England and Wales officiated at the graduation ceremony, at a sun-baked Venue Cymru in Llandudno, in front of a full house of 1,500 students, families and friends.

Mallika Vittayajaroen, from Denbigh, graduated with a BA (Hons) management and business degree and is now going on to study for a Master’s degree in international marketing.

She said: “I came to Coleg Llandrillo to study for a degree and to get that ‘university’ experience.

"Not only did I enjoy studying for a degree, I made some great friends along the way.”

Dafydd Evans, CEO of Grwp Llandrillo Menai, said: “I am very pleased to welcome guests (and) graduates to this 2019 graduation ceremony, which represents the completion of many years of intense study, commitment and effort by our students and teaching staff.

"The ceremony formally recognises the award of degrees and diplomas to our Higher Education students.

“The event has grown considerably alongside the increase in the provision of our Higher Education courses. The number of students has grown too, since Coleg Llandrillo merged with Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor in 2010 and again, with Coleg Menai in 2012, to form Grwp Llandrillo Menai."

In support of the Student Unions’ chosen charity of the year, Macmillan Cancer Support, 100 commemorative teddies were sold to graduates, with all proceeds going to the charity.