A TEESSIDE student has won a place on a university course across the Atlantic.

Basketball player Gavin Smith, 22, of Seaton Lane, Hartlepool, is starting his first year at Oakland City University in Indiana, US.

A former Brierton School pupil, he is studying for his second degree in graphic design, thanks to a basketball scholarship.

The scholarship, which covers his course fees, means that when Gavin is not studying he in on the basketball court, playing for the university team.

Gavin also received a £1,000 grant to help his career from the Jobs Build Project Bursary scheme in Hartlepool.

The scheme gives grants to help unemployed people fulfil requirements of a job offer and is funded by the Owton Rossmere and North Hartlepool Single Regeneration Budget.

When Gavin finishes his course he has the prospect of job with Swan Hunter, in Tyneside, thanks to his training.

He said: "I am really enjoying my time in the States and like to think I'm helping fly the flag for Hartlepool.

"I hope that other young people in the area will be encouraged to go for it and broaden their horizons."

Gavin's first design degree was gained at the Kaskaskia college, in Illinois.