Thousands of south Bucks university students threw their caps in the air as they graduated this week.

Bucks New University students were presented with their degrees as they graduated across a wide range of subjects in ceremonies at the Wycombe Swan theatre.

And a former high ranking British Army officer injured in Afghanistan and the president of Decca Records Group UK were among figures who received honorary awards.

David Richmond who commanded Forces in Afghanistan and underwent four years of reconstruction surgery and rehabilitation after being shot by the Taliban, was recognised for his inspirational leadership and work with the charity Help for Heroes.

Rebecca Allen, president of Decca Records Group UK, the first woman to head up the label in its long history, was also honoured for her outstanding contribution to the UK’s music industry and her international reputation.

Professor Rebecca Bunting, vice-chancellor of Bucks New University, said: “It has been a wonderful week of graduation celebrations as we mark our students’ achievements and wish them well for their careers

“Their graduation day is a hugely memorable and proud occasion for our graduates and their families and friends, as well as us.

“We congratulate them all and will follow with interest as their careers develop.

“Graduation rounds off a very successful year for the university, with our Silver Award in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2018, which recognises excellence in learning and teaching in higher education.”

Graduating students also shared heartwarming stories.

Mum Abigail Wright, 23, celebrated graduating from BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance with her proud twin boys, six-year-old Jack and Liam.

She said: “As a young single parent of twins, I never thought university would be possible, but thanks to Bucks New University I was able to realise my dream and graduate.”

And Nicola Wahl, who studied BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult) with NMC Registration, said she burst into tears of joy when she was told she had won an award for achieving the highest mark in her dissertation.

She said: “To be recognised for this achievement is so rewarding and I feel so proud of myself.”