THE achievements of a pensioner who went back to the classroom to learn to read and write will be celebrated tomorrow.

Betty Hetherington, 72, from Stanley, was illiterate until ten years ago, when she enrolled on an Adult Basic Education course at Derwentside College. Since then, she has completed various courses, and is currently studying calligraphy and watercolours.

"I was really delighted to be nominated for this award," she said.

"I certainly believe in lifelong learning and hope I can encourage others to return to college and achieve their goals."

She is one of 27 people from across Derwentside who will be presented with Celebrating Success Awards at a ceremony in the Empire Theatre, Consett, tomorrow night.

Among them is 17-year-old Stephen Westgarth from Delves Lane, near Consett.

The teenager runs a Youth Action Entertainment group which allows children under the age of 16 to get together every week to perform a pantomime, which he produces and directs.

He also devotes up to ten hours a week to managing the computer network in Delves Lane village hall.

His mother, Ann Westgarth, who is the hall administrator, narrowly missed out on an award for her contribution to the community, but was highly commended by the judges.

The awards acknowledge individuals who have achieved outstanding personal success and made significant contributions to their communities through education, business and the arts.

Their stories will be used in a publicity campaign next year, to inspire others from north-west Durham to achieve their aspirations and goals.

The successful nominees will be presented with an award by Derwentside role models including former World Cruiserweight boxing champion Glenn McCrory, Graeme Danby who is a senior baritone with the English National Opera, and Sadie Ayton, who set up her Sadie the Bra Lady business 13 years ago.