A FORMER newsagent who suffered a brain stem stroke is continuing his fight back to health by brushing up on his education.

Nigel Dougill started having problems with his sight and co-ordination four years ago.

"I got up one day and discovered I just couldn't walk downstairs," said Mr Dougill, who lives in Northallerton.

"They discovered I had a rare blood group and I'd also had a brain stem stroke, which is very rare in someone my age.

"I'd been a newsagent for 20 years but I had to give up my job."

He came across Northallerton College's learndirect centre, which operates out of the Connexions building in High Street.

"Since then I have been attending regularly," he said.

"I didn't really get on very well with school and left without any qualifications.

To be honest, if learndirect was anything like school I wouldn't have bothered - but it's not.

"It's ideal for me as I can do an hour then get up and have a walk around.

"So I decided it was time to get some qualifications and now have my European Computer Driving Licence, five GCSEs and have started A-levels in law and English.

"I am really enjoying it. I'm trying to get as many qualifications as I can and then I'll see if there is anyone out there who can make use of them."

Northallerton College training and learning services manager Dr Graham Best said: "Nigel is someone we are very proud of and has shown great commitment.

"He is a good example of what can be achieved through blended learning opportunities - using the best aspects of e-learning and combining it with personal learning support."