A MATURE student who combined work with study has won a prize for his determination and commitment.

Kevin Platts, 27, of Durham, was given £200 for endeavour, by sponsors Solutions Recruitment, at Sunderland University's graduation ceremony.

Kevin began a full-time degree course in computing that included a year-long placement with mobile phone firm Orange.

Bosses were so impressed with his work that they asked him to stay on as a software engineer and he completed his studies part-time, graduating with a first class degree.

Kevin left school at 16 with nine GCSEs and started an apprenticeship at a local engineering company, but took voluntary redundancy and decided to return to education.

"The prize was a huge surprise and I am thrilled to receive it. It has been hard, combining work and study, and there have been many late nights but it has certainly been worth it.''

Margaret Clare, managing director of Solutions Recruitment, said: "The university has some of the best computing graduates in the region who understand that employers are looking for more than just academic achievement. They want staff who will work hard and show commitment. Kevin has demonstrated real motivation.''

Mary Mansi, course leader in the university's school of computing, engineering and technology, said: "This award shows our students that endeavour is a vital quality which can help them find a job in today's competitive world.