COLLEGE students studying a uniformed services course have proved that hard work and dedication spell success.

Many Derwentside College students, who have attended the course in Stanley's former fire station have fulfilled lifelong ambitions by gaining entry into the armed or civilian forces, from the specialist teaching at the centre.

In the past two years more than 20 students have gained entry into the services, including the Royal Marine Commandos, the British Army and the Royal Air Force.

Peter Golightly has joined the RAF as an air traffic controller, while Karli Pearson has join the Queen Alexandra Royal Army Nursing Corps.

Other success stories include Michael Hall, who is soon to join the Scots Guards as a musician and Gavin Shields, who is to start Parachute Regiment training in December.

The uniformed services course continues to be a popular choice for people wishing to join the armed or civilian forces. There are more than 20 students on the course, many of them have begun their work placements.

Kimberley Waterson, who hopes to enlist in the Royal Navy is in Slovakia and Barry Wood is in Slovenia, where he is involved in environmental and conservation work.

Barney Howard is in the South of France and has been accepted into the RAF, while Andrew Gailes, who hopes to join the Police Force is in the Czech Republic. Lecturer Andrew Aitken said he was delighted with their progress.