Class of 2025: Smiles all around as more than 2,000 Wolverhampton graduates recognised for achievements in their studies

More than 2,000 grinning graduates and their loved ones have visited Wolverhampton's The Halls to mark a major milestone in their academic journeys.

Today marked the ceremonial day for the University of Wolverhampton's Schools of Education, Psychology, Allied Health and Midwifery, Health and Society, and the School of Sport. 

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The sounds of cheering family members, partners and friends could be heard all over the city as they cheered on their nearest and dearest as they prepared to take to the stage to receive their diplomas in their fields. 

The day has been three years in the making for many, with many more hoping to continue their journeys to attain their Master's degree, or even their Doctorate. 

Among those receiving their degree in occupational therapy was Clare Wilford, 32, from Shropshire, who was joined by her mother and father, Bromwen and Mark Williams.

Mr Williams, said: "We are extremely proud. It's a great day.

"There will be a few tears, I'll try and hold them back, but there definitely will be."

Also in the sea of smiling faces was Dylan Roberts, 27, from Burntwood, Staffordshire. He was joined by his partner Ashleigh Hallam, and mother, father and sister, Marie, Nick and Danni. 

Dylan said: "It's been a hard three years. I'm really excited to graduate." 

"There will probably be tears. It's been hard keeping him studying!" Dyland's father, Nick, added.

The graduating students were gathered around, talking to their friends and families as they discussed their studies and their potential futures. 

Also graduating was Abbie Palmer, 22, from Wolverhampton, and her friend Aimie Ainsbury, 30, of Cradley, both of whom are paramedical sciences students. 

They said: "It's a hard course to study. I think we are going for a meal with our parents after this. It's exciting."

Four friends, Declan Brown, 20, Josh Pearson, 21, Carter Jones, 20, and Monty Horton, 21, all from Tamworth, all studying sports sciences, said they can't wait to finish.

Declan said: "It's a hard course. Fun though. It's going to be good to graduate."

Among the guests to receive an honorary award today will be Jai Herbert, an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) cage fighter born in Wolverhampton. 

Jai will be receiving an honorary degree from the university for his contributions to the field of sport.

Talking at the event, Jai said: "It's exciting, but I'm a bit nervous. To be honest, I'm more nervous getting on that stage than I am getting in the ring.

"It's a huge honour. I left school with nothing really, so to be invited here and to get a doctorate, it's a really big honour."