A DETERMINED student who had waited 30 years to go to university has picked up a degree and an award for academic engagement.

Maureen Gibson, of Mayflower Avenue, Harwich, received her recognition at the annual graduation ceremony, which took place at Easton and Otley College, in Norfolk.

Mrs Gibson, 60, initially studied on a wildlife and conservation pathway at the Otley campus before finishing her final year at Easton, near Norwich.

Easton is affiliated to the University of East Anglia, where she gained a land-based sciences ecology degree.

She said: “I tried to go to university at the age of 28 but I wasn’t able to. So, I’ve waited over 30 years to do this.

“I got the student experience and stayed in halls in between work assignments.

“I was delighted to get my degree and chuffed to win the award.

“My friends and family are quite impressed.”

Jane Townsend, principal of Easton and Otley College, said:“Well done to Maureen on her special accolade.”