IT'S the day they have been waiting for.

Years of hard work and dedication have finally paid off for more than 1,200 students who will this week celebrate their graduation from University College, Winchester.

It is the first round of graduations since the college, formerly known as King Alfred College, gained its new title.

This year's ceremonies at Winchester Cathedral will be presided over by Southampton University Pro-Chancellor Dame Rennie Fritchie.

University College Principal Professor Paul Light said: "Graduation ceremonies are always very special events for those involved.

"This week's graduations are of specific significance, being the first under our new title of University College, Winchester.

"After more than a century and a half of existence, we now have full awarding powers for all undergraduate and masters degrees.

"We served a long apprenticeship within the university sector. Now we have the recognition we deserve as a provider of excellent higher education."

He added: "Although current graduates' awards are accredited by Southampton University, we do very much feel that these are our graduates and so do they."

Graduands from subjects spanning performing arts, teaching, sport, nursing, business and social studies have graduated this year.

They will be joined by six honorary graduates who have been recognised for their distinctive service to the local, regional or national community.

Archaeologist Mick Aston, who works as a consultant and leader on Channel 4's Time Team programme, is to be awarded an honorary degree from the School of Social Sciences.

The other honorary graduates include Paul Kinvig, publisher of the Hampshire Chronicle Group of newspapers for his achievements in the newspaper world.

Barbara Large OBE, director of the Annual Writer's Conference; Professor Sir David Watson, historian and vice chancellor of Brighton University; Alice Kettle, a textile artist; and Professor Carol Dyhouse, a Sussex University historian, will all receive honorary degrees as well.

A special Graduation Day edition of the Daily Echo has been produced for the graduates from University College, Winchester. Contact the Daily Echo's subscriptions administrator Peter Bullwinkle for your copy. Tel: 023 8042 4722 or email: peter.bullwinkle@soton-echo.co.uk