ONE student proved that disability need not stand in the way of success after she achieved top grades.

Aisha Hussain, from Prior Pursglove College, in Guisborough, east Cleveland, who has been blind since birth, received her exam results in Braille.

The 18-year-old, whose second language is English, secured a place at Durham University with A grades in psychology and English literature and a B in French.

This follows her success last year when she gained three A grades at AS-level.

Aisha, who hopes to become a journalist, arrived in England from Pakistan when she was five. She had to read all her texts in Braille, including French.

She said: "I did not expect to do this well. It was a hard year, harder than my AS-year."

Her teachers are full of praise for her achievements.

College principal Stephen Whitehead said Aisha had worked with determination and enthusiasm to put her difficulties behind her.

Senior tutor Pat Lewis, who has co-ordinated support at the college for Aisha, said: "This is a great achievement for Aisha. She has really fulfilled her potential. She is a very typical student, who works hard, but also plays hard, too.

"She is a delight and has the right attitude. I am sure she will do well at university."

Aisha will read English, French and philosophy at university.