AFTER working in a factory producing snacks, a mother-of-three could soon get her teeth into a career in medicine.

Allison Corbett, 34, of Hartlepool, is awaiting the results of her final examinations, after taking a foundation programme in bio-medical science at the University of Durham's Stockton Campus.

Teesside educationalists are hoping the example set by Ms Corbett, who less than three years ago was working shifts at a crisp factory, will give others contemplating a change of direction food for thought.

Inspired by the computer-competence of her young son, Liam, and his classmates, Ms Corbett enrolled with Hartlepool Adult Education on an office practice course, going on to study information business technology and then an access to health studies course, at Hartlepool College of Further Education.

She has been offered a conditional pace at Newcastle University to read medicine.

Pam Eccles, executive director for the Learning and Skills Council Tees Valley, said: "There is no doubt that learning is set to play a much greater part in our lives.

"In particular, all adults need the opportunity to continue to learn throughout their working lives, to bring their qualifications up to date and, where necessary, to train for a different job.''