A TOUCH of university life came to Blackburn last night when over 500 students in caps and gowns paraded through the town centre.

The Blackburn College students received degrees and diplomas in a variety of subjects during the ceremony in King George's Hall.

The college is able to offer degree courses because of its links with universities such as Hull, Glamorgan, Huddersfield, Lancaster and Central Lancashire.

However, although the degrees are validated by these universities, they are often taught entirely on the expanding college campus.

College principal John Bolton said the success of the awards night was a testimony to the hard work of students and the support of their families. He added that increasing numbers of college students were now moving from A-levels to higher education without leaving Blackburn.

"This event becomes more popular each year and for the first time we have reserved every seat in King George's Hall," he said.

A major factor in the increasing number of courses available at the college has been the purchase of the former British Telecom building for over £2.5 million.

This has now been converted into classrooms specifically for higher education courses.

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