A GRANDMOTHER who went back to college so she could help people in crisis has been named Britain's best student.

Gloria Cox, 55, of Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, won the national Student of the Year.

The awards are open to all 200,000 people studying for an NCFE qualification. Mrs Cox has successfully completed a diploma in counselling and psychotherapy at Bishop Auckland College.

Tutor Christine McIntyre, who nominated Mrs Cox for the prize, said: "Watching Gloria develop from a quiet member of the group to brimming with confidence and motivation was a real pleasure. The effort she put in was considerable, overcoming many challenges along the way."

Mrs Cox, a mother-of-five and who has ten grandchildren, said: "I was thrilled to win. It has been a fantastic time."

She is a member of the Jesus Christ Church of Latter Day Saints, in Newton Aycliffe, and decided to take the course so she could join its confidential welfare service.

She was presented with her trophy and £500 at a ceremony at the Hilton Hotel, on Gateshead Quays, yesterday. As part of her prize, she stayed in the hotel overnight with husband Brian.

Earlier this month, she won the regional round of the competition, along with £250.

She is now considering taking a Masters degree in counselling.