TWO students from Darlington are celebrating four years of hard work after graduating from the same university.

Abby Blackburn, 22, and John Harland 23, have both been presented with degrees from Harper Adams University College this month.

Abby has now turned her talents to teaching after gaining a first class BSc (Hons) degree in rural leisure management.

Abby, who previously attended Hummersknott School and Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College in Darlington, is now doing a teacher training course at Barnard Castle Primary School.

She said: "It's been an amazing experience and I'd recommend it to anyone.

"It's been exactly what I've wanted academically wise and getting my 1st class was amazing."

John has also graduated from the Shropshire-based University College with a BEng (Hons) degree in off-road vehicle design.

The 23-year-old who also attended Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College said: "It's been brilliant and I've loved being here because it's been fun whilst doing a great degree.

"Now I'm thinking about my plans for the future and how I can use my degree to its full potential."