Two sisters celebrated graduating from a Lincoln teacher training college – nearly 50 years after they both finished their course.

Norma Howe, 67, and Kathleen Meakin, 83, were among former students from all over the country who took part in a special ceremony at Lincoln Cathedral.

The event was part of Bishop Grosseteste University College's 150th birthday celebrations and commemorated everything that students, graduates and staff had achieved in its history.

The service also recognised past students who received a certificate in education at the end of their studies, rather than a degree, meaning they never had the opportunity to attend a graduation ceremony.

Mrs Howe, from Claxby near Market Rasen, attended Bishop Grosseteste from 1962 to 1965, while her sister Mrs Meakin, now living in Chesterfield, attended 16 years previous from 1946 to 1948.

They both took on their first teaching job at Treeton Primary School, near Rotherham, before moving around the country.

For four years, Mrs Meakin even taught British children in Algeria. While the younger sister worked for 19 years at Middle Rasen Primary School before finishing in 1999.

The roll of honour celebration at the cathedral was described by the pair as a "day of a lifetime".

Mrs Meakin said: "It was such a wonderful day and it was very nice to still be appreciated after all these years.

"When we completed our training back in the day we were just sent our certificates in the post and there was no ceremony at all.

"It was a very touching experience and will be one of those days I'll always remember."

Mrs Howe added: "We were both most amazed by the ceremony. It acknowledged our services to education and the achievements of our fellow former students.

"We were treated with great respect – there was a guard of honour waiting for us when we left the cathedral and even the town crier.

"After all these years having left the college, it was really lovely to have the celebration and be acknowledged for our achievements. Personally, I had a really enjoyable time when I was at the college.

"Times were different back then and there were more restrictions on us – if we wanted to stay out late we had to report to our tutor and things like that.

"If I could give any advice to training teachers today it would be that if you enjoy your time teaching, the children will as well. They give back the same enthusiasm that you put in."

Bishop Grosseteste will continue celebrating its 150th anniversary with several other events planned throughout the year including a Homecoming Weekend and Alumni Reunion from May 4 to May 6.