An Edinburgh Napier University Veterinary Nursing student had an especially memorable graduation day – as her partner proposed outside the Usher Hall following her ceremony.
After collecting her degree, Shannon Ward met her family at The Napier Graduate pub, where Jamie Carty popped the question – and got the answer he was hoping for. The moment was captured on video by Shannon’s mum Clair, and cheered by many other new graduates nearby.
Shannon, from Consett in County Durham, said she had no inkling of what her other half had planned for her big day.
She said: “I had no idea! I even pointed out some jewellery I liked as we passed shops on the way here and he stayed quiet.
“My reaction…just shock and awe! Jamie has always said he wouldn’t propose to me in front of people, so it completely took me aback.
“It’s been such a great day.”
Jamie, from Darlington, County Durham, said he had a tough time keeping the idea quiet.
He said: “I was so nervous, but I just tried to focus on Shannon as I was saying the words – and not think about all the people around!
“I wanted it to happen somewhere which is already associated with so many wonderful memories. It made the nerves worthwhile.”
While the happy couple turn their attention to planning a wedding, Shannon is already putting her studies to good use, finding work in Northumberland.