Student presented with bill for overdue library books on graduation day instead of her degree certificate

It should have been the proudest day of her life.

But when mature student Ann Watt stepped on stage to collect her degree in front of three generations of her family, she was instead handed - a library fine.

The stunned mother of two was told she would not get her bachelor of science in psychology and sociology until she settled an outstanding bill for overdue books.

She said she felt shocked and humiliated when she opened the envelope in front of hundreds of students at the graduation ceremony.

She said: 'What they did ruined my day. Not only that, but in years to come, what have I got to look back on?'

Mrs Watt said university officers told her the bill was for overdue library books - but said that she has not been given a final bill despite repeated calls.

The student, who achieved a BSc in psychology and sociology, was cheered by her husband, two sons and mother as she took the stage for the Bucks New University ceremony.

But when she opened her envelope she saw a letter which read: 'The student finance department records that you are a financial debtor to the university.

'Therefore, your certificate will not be issued until the matter is resolved.'

The university even took a photograph of her being handed the letter - for which Mrs Watt had paid £20 in advance.

She said: 'I have paid for a photograph of me receiving a rude letter.'

Mrs Watt funded her three-year studies by working in a care home in the evenings.

She made 80-mile round trips from home in Turweston, near Buckingham, to attend classes in High Wycombe, Bucks, and said her family were saddened by the university's treatment of her.

Mrs Watt said of the ceremony at Wycombe Swan theatre: 'Everybody was showing their certificate around and all I had was this rude letter. I can never relive that day. My mum was devastated. All the other students were celebrating.'

She told the Bucks Free Press how, feeling completely humiliated, she queued in her gown at the university's student office to try and repay her debt - but was then told that the person she needed to see was out to lunch.

The university today defended its actions. Pro-vice-chancellor David Gay told the Bucks Free Press: 'We cannot comment on specific circumstances relating to an individual graduate.

'As a publicly funded body, we have a duty to recover any outstanding debts, and this can prove difficult once students have left us.'

He said many universities would bar students from attending graduations over debts.

'We want all students to be able to enjoy their graduation day, and permit students with debts to attend, but withhold their certificates until their debts are paid.

'Whilst it may be disappointing for a student to have their certificate withheld, they are able to take a full part in their ceremony alongside their peers, in every other way.'

He said the university's student handbook made this clear, and that all universities required debts to be cleared before graduation.

He added: 'Students with debt are given every opportunity for discussion and to clear their debts before they finish their studies.'