COURAGEOUS Amy Livesey has overcome a painful skin condition to achieve success in her studies.

Amy, 18, of Tunstall, near Richmond, suffers from epidermolysis bullosa, which means her skin blisters with the slightest knock.

Amy has to wear dressings every day, from her neck down, and eating is a problem as her mouth is also affected by the condition.

Against all the odds, she has managed to remain in mainstream education and her determination to succeed has resulted in excellent A-level results. Amy passed history, general studies and got an AVCE in media studies at the Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College, Darlington.

Amy has applied to study for a media degree at Teesside University but will defer her place for a year because she is awaiting surgery. She said: "I've really enjoyed my two years at college and I have had a lot of support. I'm pleased with my results."