Some 280 young people receive certificates and special prizes at college’s 65th annual awards ceremony

Students from Honiton and across the Axe Valley were winners at Bicton College’s 65th annual awards ceremony.

More than 280 happy students received certificates and special prizes, supported at the event by around 400 parents and friends.

College Principal and chief executive, David Henley, said: “This ceremony is a highlight in our academic calendar. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the wonderful achievement of each and every one of our students, many of whom have had to rise to great challenges to achieve their goal. Bicton is committed to helping these very special people towards their ultimate career goals.”

Students study a range of subjects at Bicton, including outdoor leisure, animal care, equine studies, horticulture, countryside and environment, floristry, agriculture, engineering and veterinary nursing.

Top student on the level 3 diploma in forestry and arboriculture was David Gillingham, from Awliscombe.

Tutor Nobby Clarke said he showed “total commitment” throughout the course and had produced excellent work both practically and academically.

Alex Spurdle, from Axminster, was awarded the commitment to sport cup. He captained the rugby academy in year one and played for the England Colleges against Wales and Portugal. He also turned out for Exeter Chiefs U18s and 2nd XV this season whilst studying outdoor leisure management. He has also completed coaching awards in rugby, gym instruction and personal training.

Matthew Webb, from Axminster, was top practical student on the extended diploma in animal management. Tutors said he demonstrated “outstanding practical skills working confidently with all species of animal and has positively taken on the role of supervising groups of younger students”.

Matt was also praised as a “role model to others” for volunteering his time at the animal care centre when required.

Adam Wood from Colyton was awarded best practical student on the level 1 countryside course. His tutor Alex Turner said: “Adam is a fantastic practical worker who is steadily developing his other skills. He is a real team player.”

Ben Willis, an engineering apprentice from Honiton and agriculture student Aaron Jenkins from Combe Raleigh shared the Honiton and District Agricultural Association Award, receiving �100 each.