IT'S often said you can't teach an old dog new tricks.
But Denis Lane, 83, is proof age is no barrier to learning,
On Saturday morning, he collected a Masters Degree of Science Applied Animal Behaviour and Training.
Mr Lane, of York, a retired veterinary surgeon and respected author in the subject, was one of 66 Bishop Burton students who attended a degree ceremony at Beverley Minster.
He said: "I am very proud of what I have achieved and I urge others to do the same.
"I am a firm believer that keeping your mind active helps you stay healthier.
"Bishop Burton College is a great place to study and I would recommend it to anyone.
"I now have five degrees to my name and I just enjoy testing myself. I like a challenge.
"I received some absolutely brilliant support from my family and really enjoyed having them there on the day."
Asked how he celebrated, Mr Lane – the college's oldest student – replied: "A top meal with my family – and a gin and tonic."
More than 500 people filled Beverley Minster to join in the celebrations.
Speaking at the ceremony, college principal and chief executive Jeanette Dawson said: "I would like to offer my congratulations to all here.
"Graduating today is a fine achievement and one you, and those family members that have supported you, have all worked extremely hard for.
"It is clear to see from the number of supporters at the ceremony that many of this year's graduates could not have got this far without friends and family, work colleagues and employers, tutors and mentors, all playing their part.
"On behalf of those graduating from the college, I thank you for the support and encouragement you provided.
"We wish you well for the future and will look fondly on as your journey continues."
Each graduate was presented with a scroll by representatives from the college's partner universities.
Kevin Geraghty was also celebrating after landing a Foundation Degree in Canine Behaviour and Training.
He said: "The degree is all about looking after a dog, working on its agility and all sorts.
"I couldn't celebrate getting my degree without my dog Dusty. She earned the degree as much as me.
"She is almost ten years old and I got her about four years ago.
"She is a former breeding dog and getting her was the motivation I needed to do the course at Bishop Burton College.
"I am really proud of myself as well because I never expected to get a degree.
"I was not great at school but Bishop Burton gave me the opportunity and I am really happy I did it."
Michelle Fraser, assistant principal for higher education, said: "The day was a cause for celebration.
"Not only have these students graduated, but many have also found promising careers already.
"More than 95 per cent of our students go on to employment or further study within six months of graduating. So I am particularly pleased to see that those graduating are continuing that tradition."
Overall, more than 250 degree students and almost 1,000 further education students have graduated from Bishop Burton College this year.
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