STUDENTS from four corners of the globe are in line for a major award for their contributions to the North-East.

The group, all studying at Northumbria University, in Newcastle, have been shortlisted in the International Student Awards.

Thomas Jakobsen, of Denmark, Sirichon Ungsaichue, of Thailand, Tshering Lama, of Nepal, and Olusegun Adegbite and Godwin Obot, both of Nigeria, were picked for the shortlist out of 1,700 entries from across the UK.

Thomas, 27, trained in Newcastle as a gym instructor through the university's Coaching in the Community project and now offers free training for North-East youngsters, under the KidzCamp scheme.

He said: "The experiences I have had working and studying in Newcastle have developed me as a person.

"Meeting people from all over the world opens your eyes and it has made me see things I did not see before."

Gospel artist Olusegun, 28, has created a mini-recording studio in his house in Fenham and plans to go to the US in the summer to record some music.

Sirichon, 24, is a leading member of Meet and Greet, the group that welcomes new international students and helps them settle in.

Godwin, 27, works for Henshaws Society for the Blind as a care officer. He also plans to work as a volunteer for Amnesty International.

Nepalese student Tshering Lama, 20, has been shortlisted for his efforts in environmental work.

The awards, run by the British Council, recognise international students who have made a contribution to their institution.

The winner of the £1,000 prize will be announced next month.