GRADUATES marked the end of student life in York with a 12-hour ball last night.

More than 1,000 graduating students from the University of York attended the annual Students' Union Gradball, held for the first time at Askham Bryan College.

Dressed to the nines, those who attended enjoyed a three-course meal followed by entertainment from the Bluetones, DJ Yoda, E-Z Rollers, Radio 1's Nemone, local band The Goosehorns, and University of York Battle of the Bands winners, Skassa Monakee Synth Quartet. Euro-pop legends, Vengaboys also made a one-night return to England, flying in from Holland especially to perform.

James Byron, outgoing Students' Union services officer, said: "The night was the perfect way to celebrate the achievements of York students and to say goodbye to the city."

A large number of those attending the ball made it to 6am to pose for the traditional "survivors' photo".

Updated: 10:43 Saturday, July 12, 2003