Adult Learner of the Year

This new award, sponsored by the Learning and Skills Council, was given to the champion of champions for being an exceptional student.

But the modest forensic science student (pictured above) said she thought there were other people who deserved the accolade.

"I was absolutely stunned - I really didn't expect it. It's the icing on the cake," she said.

Barbara was grateful to her tutors for all their support and said the new course was "well worth doing".

"The tutors have been excellent - every one of them - and I couldn't have done the course without my family being there the whole way through. They have always been supportive."

Barbara has had to overcome some pain during her studies.

Years ago she had to give up her nursing career due to back problems, which still persist.

"There have been times when it's been very painful and I have had injections, but I wouldn't let it hold me back," she said.