THE University of Chester annual valedictory prize giving 2020 has been held.

As part of the ceremony, The University Lodge of Chester was proud to present the Association of Masonic, University and Legal Lodges (AMULL) Prize to Emilie Sian Lawson, in recognition of her outstanding contribution and commitment to performing arts over her three years of study.

Cheshire Freemason and master of the University Lodge of Chester, Charles Hallett, himself a graduate of the University of Chester said: "AMULL’s student prize giving programme is part of its on-going evolution and consistent with its objective of supporting Freemasonry in the wider community and, in particular, in higher education."

Emilie, who hails from Cockermouth in Cumbria, said: "The valedictory award came as a complete surprise to me, but I am extremely honoured.

"The reason I was so committed and passionate about this course was just because I loved it so much! I must thank all of my lecturers too as they have always been utterly amazing.

"The undergraduate performing arts degree at Chester was absolutely perfect for me from day one. The modules that they offer cover all bases from dance technique to learning how to create videos to covering an array of drama practitioners.

"It seriously has everything. I’ve always been involved in the performing arts industry as I was a part of Stagecoach Performing Arts school in my hometown of Cockermouth for 12 years but coming to Chester has really expanded my knowledge and I can’t believe the difference within myself from the start of my degree until now.

"I definitely tried to make the most of my time at university as I was a teacher and committee member for the Universities dance team, a youth ambassador for One Dance UK and I also received a Chester Difference award and Gold Volunteering award.

"I have loved my time at Chester that much that come September I am returning to undertake my teacher training but receiving this award as I finish my undergraduate degree is seriously so special to me and it is just the icing on the cake!"

The annual award ceremony is usually held at St Oswald and Thomas of Canterbury Church in Chester, however due to the restrictions of the Covid-19 pandemic this year’s ceremony was held by video link.