A FACTORY worker who went back to the classroom has been shortlisted for an award from the NHS Universit'.

Robert Mallows is in the running for a regional NHSU Award, to celebrate Adult Learners' Week in May.

The award celebrates the achievements of adult learners in the health and social care sector.

Mr Mallows, 42, of Delves Lane, near Consett, was nominated for the award by staff at Derwentside College.

He had worked for 12 years at the Explorer Group in Delves Lane, but returned to learning to develop his career prospects.

After completing an access course at Derwentside College, he is now studying an Occupational Therapy degree, at Northumbria University in Newcastle.

He said: "I can honestly say that my year at Derwentside College was the happiest and most rewarding year of my life.

"I am now more confident and I feel I have the qualities needed to complete my degree. I never dreamed I would study subjects such as anatomy or psychology, or write 1500-word assignments and enjoy it."

He chose occupational therapy after snapping his achilles tendon playing football. He said: "I went through a year of physiotherapy and saw what a rewarding job it could be. Through that I found out about occupational therapy, and decided that was for me."

All regional nominees will be considered for the national award, to be announced on May 6.