A STUDENT'S determination to overcome the odds was rewarded yesterday when she graduated with the highest marks in her year.

Rachel Bibby, 22, who pressed ahead with her A-levels despite having diabetes and ME, graduated from the University of Sunderland with a BSc Hons in biomedical sciences.

She said: "I was delighted when I found out that I had got a first, as well as the biomedical sciences president's prize.

"I don't suppose I will be that popular with the other students, but I am really happy that I did well."

Ms Bibby learned in the middle of her A-levels that she had diabetes but passed her exams.

In her second year at university, she was diagnosed with ME but, although she missed six months of her one-year industrial placement, she did not let it affect her studies.

Her father Keith said: "Her tremendous character and determination are there for all to see."

And her programme leader, Dr Anne Cunningham, said: "Rachel has never complained or made excuses, but persevered and overcome her personal difficulties.

"It is particularly special that she has achieved the highest marks of her year."

Rachel said she was planning to enjoy the remainder of the summer before returning to her studies for a PhD.