INSPIRATIONAL learners have overcome disabilities, homelessness and other problems to achieve success at Bournemouth and Poole College.

The high-achieving adults, who all returned to learning, picked up awards at a ceremony at the Hotel Miramar.

Among those honoured was Hee Ran Lee, who worked full time to support herself and her husband, who is a student at Bournemouth University while pursuing a full time course.

Her tutor Adrian Martin said: "She got 100 per cent in eight different exams and gave in the best assignment I have ever seen. After her placement as a hotel receptionist the manager said to me: If this is the calibre of all students I will get rid of all my staff and fill the hotel with students'."

Mum Charlene Elford returned to learning to do a dance course and according to her tutor Gareth Morrell, she "inspires everybody on the course".

Another dance student Samantha Neech also received an award. She was paralysed for a year after a back operation but is now learning to be a dance teacher.

Tim Jackson was named adult achiever of the year. He was working in construction until he had an accident and decided to return to college to do a teaching qualification.

His tutor Denise Woodford said: "He overcame personal tragedy and financial hardship and now is starting work at the college in September."

Florist Jean Rowland was a runner-up. She returned to learning when her husband died and has overcome illness to succeed on her course, even representing the college at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Also receiving runner-up awards were Lee Miller, who is going to study accounting at university and had to combine his studies with looking after his disabled mother, and plumbing student Darren Bradley, who helps other disabled students.