A pensioner who has overcoming the odds to learn how to use a computer has earned himself a national learning award.

Gordon Nattrass, who is 72 and is blind and partially deaf, has received a Senior Learner's Award from organisers of the UK's largest festival of adult learning, the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education.

Mr Nattrass attends computer courses at Bishop Auckland College's centre in his home town of Crook, County Durham, where his achievements have encouraged other blind students. The centre is equipped with special keyboards and software and Friday afternoons are set aside for the group.

Mr Nattrass, who has been blind since he was 40, learnt to read, spell and type in English and Braille, earning computing and word processing qualifications.

Centre manager Alan Skinner said: "It never ceases to astound me how much he progresses. He has been an inspiration.

"Gordon and tutor Malcolm should feel very proud of themselves for what they have achieved."

Mr Nattrass will be presented with his award in London during Adult Learners' Week this month