A BELOVED family dog who 'rescued' a girl from her anxiety was the guest of honour at a special graduation ceremony on Friday.

Art graduate Daisy Evans, 23, and her sister Hollie were joined by Boris their four-year-old springer-poodle cross at the University of Reading.

The Dartford family asked the university if their canine friend would be allowed to attend Daisy's graduation.

Boris has played an important role in the Evans household and is particularly special to Hollie in her battle with anxiety.

At the height of her anxiety, the 19-year-old did not speak for two years, but the four-legged friend helped her to become more confident.

Hollie said: “It is lovely to have Boris here. I get very nervous, but he helps me because he is a bit of a distraction.

“He is a part of the family so he should be here. Boris comes with me everywhere. He rescued me.”

It was the first time the family had come together for nearly five years and Boris even wore a personalised mortar board to get in the graduation spirit.

Parents Ali and Daren attended the ceremony and watched Daisy receive her degree in the Great Hallon the London Road campus.

Ali explained: “Everyone at the university has been very kind. When I emailed explaining the situation, I did not think it would be possible to bring Boris, but they said he was very welcome to come.

“It has made this a special day for Daisy and all our family.”

Daisy is the first person on her mother's side of the family to attend university and she graduated after studying Art and the History of Art.

Her work was on display at the university's Fine Art Degree show last month and Wiltshire Museum will also have her collection on display until early September.

A spokesman for University of Reading added: “Graduation staff always try to assist students and their guests where possible to ensure everyone attending has the best experience possible.

“We are delighted to hear that the family enjoyed their day and that bringing Boris made such a difference.”