Felpham woman graduates at 68

Janet Carter achieved a BA (Honours) in humanities after she realised a lifelong ambition to study.

She was among the 290 students from south east England whose hard work and dedication were recognised at a graduation ceremony at The Dome in Brighton.

She intends to carry on studying for another five years. An MA in creative writing is her next goal.

She said: "It would be wonderful to see my writing published and, who knows, with the confidence the OU has given me, I might make it."

Janet's academic success story began after her husband retired after a career as a BA pilot. She found herself spending long periods in South Africa. A television advert which featured the Open University inspired her to enrol.

"As one of six children and one of three girls, university wasn't really an option for me when I was younger," she explained.

"Despite my lack of formal education though, I did work very successfully for many years. It wasn't until my husband retired, and we started spending time in South Africa, that I found myself somewhat at a loss. The Open University offered me a lifeline and ultimately became an obsession."

Her starter of an introduction to humanities explored a wide cross-section of subjects. She settled on a history of art having initially considered literature.

Also among those honoured in the graduation ceremony was Nichola Smith (31), from Felpham. She achieved a BSc (Honours) in environment to enable her to change career from a chef to a technical manager.