A GRANDMOTHER is celebrating a career change after graduating from the Open University in the North.

Val Dodsworth, from Darlington, was presented with her BSc degree at a ceremony at Newcastle City Hall earlier this month.

She started her studies in 1988 when her two children left home and she decided to do everything that she had always wanted to.

Mrs Dodsworth said: "I enrolled on the science foundation course and nearly had a heart attack when the home kit arrived - a complete science lab in a box!"

"I struggled through with the help of a brilliant tutor and to my amazement got a pass."

Mrs Dodsworth then went on to study technology, earth sciences and three environmental studies courses, which enabled her to gain her BSc degree.

To add to her achievements, she has just got a job as a community safety project worker having had previous jobs as a secretary.

She said: "It's been a real struggle at times but it's all been worth it. At the age of 60 when others are thinking of retiring, I have succeeded in a complete career change."