TWO Bishop Auckland College students were rewarded for their success in overcoming odds to achieve qualifications.

Brazilian Zilda Dasilva and father-of-four Ferguson Matthews were among the winners at a County Durham Adult Learners Awards ceremony hosted by children's writer Terry Deary for County Durham Learning.

All nominees had studied free courses, including a Skills For Life programme.

Mrs Dasilva and Mr Matthews both received Individual Learner Awards.

When Mrs Dasilva came to England from Brazil eight years ago, she could not speak the language and was unfamiliar with the culture.

Since then, she has studied English, Spanish level one, counselling and beginners' IT. She is now studying towards her E-qualification level one certificate in IT.

She is becoming fluent in English and has found a job in Asda, in Spennymoor. She said "I can now confidently make telephone calls, visit the bank, the doctor or a shop without the need for translation. My new skills in IT have also enabled me to keep in touch with my family and friends back in Brazil."

Father-of-four Mr Matthews has struggled with various social problems throughout his adult years. He has recently been diagnosed with ADHD and Aspergers Syndrome.

He studied for his first diploma in design, a level one in numeracy and is currently working towards level two.

He has applied to study a National Diploma in Fine Art.

He said: "I finally feel I have found a subject I am really good at and am determined to continue.

"My family is extremely proud of my progress and I am certainly going to encourage them to achieve through their own learning."