TWINS Sarah and Rachel Patterson have drawn on their early passion for art to define their future.

Their joint enthusiasm has paid off, as they graduated on the same day from the University of Teesside, Middlesbrough, each with a degree in fine art.

The 23-year-olds, from Yarm, have followed the same artistic route from Conyers School to Cleveland College of Art and Design, where they first earned Foundation diplomas in art and design, followed by the fine art degree.

Rachel said: "I've always liked drawing - I remember tracing Garfield the cat when I was a little girl. I enjoyed the variety of the degree, and it was nice to collaborate with Sarah.

"I also helped Sarah with the plastering work required by the course - it was quite messy, so I think it was nice for her to have someone to help with the labouring.

"At first, the course tutors had the set idea that we were exactly the same. By the second year, they were able to see that we were different."

Sarah said: "We have different artistic interests - Rachel prefers illustration, whereas I like sculpture - all the hands on work.

"It was good to share a studio and bounce ideas off each other."