It was like a scene from Happy Days or Grease as hundreds of students partied like it was 1959.

The University of Winchester's summer ball had a 1950s theme with dancing to live music by rock and roll band The Jump Jets and milkshakes and free popcorn served in the 1950s-themed diner.

Many of the undergraduates came looking the part with the girls sporting knee length prom dresses with flared skirts.

Party-goers piled into a photo booth to pose behind the wheel of a cardboard Cadillac and strumming inflatable electric guitars.

Just under 1,000 celebrated the end of the academic year on Friday night at the University Centre where there were also some 21st century sounds supplied by resident student DJs Meg the Shredd and Jez and Luke, plus drum and bass act Matrix & Futurebound, and a set from BBC Radio 1's Huw Stephens.

Naomi Carter, Student Union President, said: “ The outfits were beautiful, everyone made such an effort to dress to the theme. The event also took place over 3 floors, rather than our usual 2, and each floor had been decorated so looked unrecognisable. It was such a special event – the best, most fun way to round off this academic year!”

“This year's summer ball was the perfect end to an amazing university experience. The atmosphere was fantastic and every detail had been accounted for; not to mention free popcorn! Good luck topping that next year Winch” said Lief Keay-Chaplin, a third year sociology student.

“The best way to end the year” said Claudia Colborn, entertainments officer elect.