BASS player Roy Winter proved he has still got what it takes as a music man after picking up top marks in recent examinations.

The 39-year-old student at Darlington College of Technology was awarded full marks in his Music Theory Grade 1 examination.

"I just went in there with what I knew," said Roy, of Lascelles, Darlington.

"I was really surprised to come out with top marks and felt really good about it."

Roy gave up his factory job to follow his love of music and is now a part-time student on the two-year Rock and Pop course, one of a host of performing arts courses which also includes acting and dancing.

"I just hope to pass the course, go to university and end up teaching music," said Roy, who plays bass in a band called Howz-Trix.

"I think I'm a bit old to break into the pop world, but I do really enjoy playing."