Double celebration for graduation day proposal

Jacob Thomas proposed to his girlfriend Erin Boddice on the steps of Worcester Cathedral

A primary school teacher was in disbelief after receiving a surprise proposal moments before her graduation ceremony.

Erin Boddice had two reasons to celebrate as she accepted her Primary Initial Teacher Education degree at the University of Worcester with an engagement ring on her hand.

She attended the ceremony at Worcester Cathedral on Thursday when her partner of three years, Jacob Thomas, got down on one knee.

University of Worcester's 2024 graduation ceremonies took place between September 9 and September 13.

The couple have been together for three years

Ms Boddice said the special moment happened in the cathedral gardens.

She said: "We were in the garden of the cathedral, overlooking the river, having family photos on the steps just by the door.

"Then Jacob got down on one knee and asked the question! I couldn’t believe it; I was very happy!”

Mr Thomas said he planned the proposal so his future father-in-law could be there to take photos.

"I half-planned the moment, but the other half was luck!” he said.

Ms Boddice, who works at a school already, said she was excited to return to work on Friday.

She said: “I can’t wait to show the children the photos and the ring when I get back to the school in the morning!”