A MATURE student is reaping the benefits of further education after fashioning a career from a love of dressmaking.

Carole Challis, 45, is hoping to turn her lifelong passion for needlecraft into a full-time business with the help of Cleveland College of Art and Design (CCAD).

Mrs Challis, of Thornaby, who learnt her dressmaking skills from her mother and grandmother as a child, signed up for a diploma in art and design course after being encouraged by her son.

She said: "I was a nervous wreck at first, going back into a classroom, but there were adults of all ages and abilities - people like me who had a passion for design, people looking to change career, and some just looking to learn a new skill.

"It made me realise that I did have an expertise and the confidence to start again, even at my age.

"Now I've signed up for CCAD's higher education BA honours degree course in applied arts, at Hartlepool, which will hopefully help me startmy own business in commissioned bespoke children's wear."

To celebrate Adult Learners' Week, the college will nextWednesday run a free art taster workshop for people aged 19 and over.

The course will run from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, at CCAD, Green Lane campus, Middlesbrough, with all materials provided free.

For more information, call Cleveland College of Art and Design on 01642-288888.