A WOMAN who suffered brain damage during a routine hysterectomy operation more than 20 years ago, has received an award for her learning achievements.

Joyce Atkinson, 63, of Skinningrove, east Cleveland, was one of five people singled out for a special award at a celebration of adult learners' achievements at the City Learning Centre in Eston.

She was nominated by Janice Dyke, from the Workers' Educational Association in the village who believed she deserved the recognition.

Mrs Atkinson has had to re-learn many basic skills such as walking and talking. She also wanted to learn about computers to help her run a pensioners' club in Skinningrove and fulfil her duties as secretary of the village's bonfire committee.

Over the past year she has been awarded qualifications in computer literacy and information technology, desktop publishing and basic IT.

Mrs Atkinson said: "I wanted to study because, to be perfectly honest, it looks as though there is nothing wrong with me, but I would like people to know and understand me more.

I thought computers would help my brain and my hand to eye co-ordination."

"I have had to learn so many things again but I thought I wanted to learn more. I thought computers would help my brain and my hand to eye co-ordination."