THE royals turned out in force to see Britain's bachelor of hearts graduate from university.

Prince William's graduation ceremony was applauded by his grandmother the Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla.

The 23-year-old picked up his master of arts geography degree certificate from the University of St Andrews in Fife.

His girlfriend Kate Middleton also graduated at the same ceremony, but did not meet the Royal Firm in public despite being among the select few invited to mingle with them afterwards.

As the royals chatted to other students, she noticeably kept her distance.

William, who gained a 2:1, told one guest: "I'm going into the big wide world - not just essays now."

The media agreement to leave him alone while he is in education is now over. Fife Chief Constable Peter Wilson said: "I suspect he'll miss it when he's gone. The spotlight will be on him now."

Although hoping to eventually sign up to the Army and train at Sandhurst, first the prince will spend two weeks in New Zealand with the touring British Lions rugby team.

He is then expected to travel to Africa in the summer before undertaking financial work experience in the City of London and with a mountain rescue team.

Manchester tops for students: Page 18

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