PAUL McCartney once said to me at the first graduation of LIPA students that if he could, he would be there every year.

It seems like yesterday...but he has been as good as his word.

The 18th graduation ceremony of students from all over the world took place at the BT Convention Centre on Tuesday.

It is a real celebration.

And not only did more than 280 students from 16 countries get degrees and foundation certificates, but household names who have given master classes in their respective skills were recognised for their work in the performing arts.

Hoylake resident Gemma Bodinetz, artistic director of the Everyman and PlayhouseTheatres, was made a companion of honour .

She told the Globe: "I had a speech prepared but threw it away. I went off-script."

Many others did the same.

Other leading lights who praised the success of LIPA was Slade frontman Noddy Holder.

In his broad Brummie accent he said: "LIPA is a magical place.

"I thought it was like Hogwarts when I first went in there."

Other new Companions included Travis frontman Fran Healy from Glasgow.

Grammy-winner Hugh Padgham was another honoured receipient.

Mark Featherstone Witty, founding principal and chief executive, was praised by leading patron Sir Paul McCartney.

Mark spoke of the fact that 14 former LIPA students were involved in the success of "Mam! I'm Ere!"at the Royal Court.

Sir Paul kept his speech short, funny and sweet.

He said: " I asked my three-year-old grandson 'What will I say about LIPA?' and he said after some thought...'blah blah blah.

"But I hope LIPA has given you memories you will have all your life."

As always the winking, self-effacing former Beatle was in fine form presenting every student with their badge and having an on-stage graduation picture taken with each one.

Leaving the event, Paul told me: "Every year I love it. I am proud."

Other guests included Companion Janice Long, Kevin Godley of 10CC and Brideshead star Nikolas Grace from Wirral.

"This year I brought my mum along," he told the Globe while sipping some post-graduation champers.

"I am always delighted to be here."

For Macca's brother Mike, who like Paul went to the original Liverpool Institute where LIPA now operates, it is always a family diary date.

He was with wife Rowena in the front-row supporting the world-famous graduation.