A MAN has overcome the effects of a vicious street attack to graduate from university.

Philip Martin who was left partially disabled following an unprovoked attack three years ago, is graduating in human resource management from the University of Teesside, in Middlesbrough.

The 49-year-old who initially lost full use of both arms following the violent assault, said: "I could either sit back and feel sorry for myself or I could access some courses and plan for the future. So I got in touch with the university and looked forward instead of looking back.''

He studied at short courses run at the North Ormesby Community Centre under the University Certificate in Professional Development scheme.

Mr Martin said: "The UCPD showed me I was capable of doing the degree course. It gives you a taste of what to expect. The university has turned my life around and I'm even thinking of doing a Masters degree.''

Mother-of-three Irene Nimmo is celebrating after earning two certificates in Professional Development from the Teesside university and is now studying part-time for a degree in business management.