IT WAS a night of celebration to recognise the hard work of Southampton students who are on the verge of stepping out into the real world.

Students in their final year of their event management degree at Southampton Solent University took to the red carpet for a night of glamour and celebration to mark their achievements over the past three years.

Organised by second year students, the Oscar-themed event saw 11 golden statues handed out to those students who have shone during their studies at the university.

One student, Nisaa Ali picked up a hat-trick of awards, proving that a lot can be achieved if you get your head down and work hard.

The students also heard from many of the top names from the events management industry who sponsored the event, including Live Recruitment, Matt Bundy Events and Seed Staff, offering their advice on how to make it in the business.

Once all the awards had been handed out at the Sir James Matthews Building, the party continued across the road at Cafe Parfait.

Sheridan Easton, events management course leader, said: “I am very proud of everyone. The best thing about this event is having the guest speakers, the sponsors and the alumni students, who speak from the heart because the students really do listen to them.”