ADULT learners have been rewarded for their commitment and achievements at a ceremony at Darlington College of Technology.

Many of the winners were based at the college's community centres, including those at Skerne Park, Firthmoor and Larchfield Street.

Jack Conner, 81, collected a senior award for his efforts on a Clait on-line learning course at Firthmoor.

Despite ill health, Mr Conner improved his information technology skills and bought his own computer.

Adult learners from Rise Carr School were nominated because of their hard work on a family literacy course that taught parents and children together.

This has given the children's learning a boost, while giving parents an opportunity to improve their own skills.

Another award went to David Hatton, who had to retire after an accident at work left him disabled.

He completed several adult courses and gaining an array of qualifications, including GSCEs and information technology skills.

Kath Tweedy, who left school at 15 to become a care assistant for the elderly, was commended for her efforts to improve her English.

She learnt that problems she had with spelling were due to dyslexia, but has gone on to prove herself as an "intelligent, highly-motivated learner", said judges.