A group of events management students from the University of Chester has been praised by the city’s Lord Mayor for its role in making some of the city’s most high profile events a success.

Cllr Jill Houlbrook, Lord Mayor of Chester and chairman of Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaC), presented a certificate to the student volunteers to recognise and thank them for their contributions in delivering the Christmas lights switch on, amongst other events. It is the second year that the students have supported this event.

In 2012, members of the University’s Events Society were invited to assist in stewarding Chester’s Olympic torch celebrations, helping the Olympic torch relay and racecourse event run smoothly.

After the success of the partnership between the university and the council, the society was invited to have a more involved role in the hugely anticipated Christmas lights switch on which saw the newly created ‘Queen of Light’ bringing illumination to the streets of Chester. Society members provided such a great level of assistance to the events team that it was decided to repeat the same format in 2013, inviting different students to take the lead and co-ordinate the stewarding for the Christmas event.

In addition to volunteering their time in Chester, a small number of dedicated students also assisted in the delivery of the Frodsham Christmas festival on November 30, working with council staff as well as organisers, Love Frodsham, to deliver a parade of festive floats and lanterns.

Tim Brown, senior lecturer in events management at the university, said: “It is fantastic to see so many of our students actively engaging in exciting event projects such as this, which not only benefits the community but also aids in developing the students’ skills and knowledge.”

Councillor Houlbrook said: “The students had the opportunity to write event plans, conduct risk assessments and steward the parades on the nights. This allowed them to gain vital experience in event planning and delivery.

“The assistance they provided was invaluable and we look forward to working closely with the University of Chester in the future and to provide more opportunities for its students.”