FOUR Gwent students have been celebrated for their achievements at the Coleg Gwent and Universities Heads of the Valleys Institute (UHOVI) Learner of the Year awards.

Mark Foster, from Pontypool, was one of eight learners of the year given awards at the event which was hosted by Real Radio presenters Jagger and Woody and featured a number of special guests from the entertainment industry.

Mr Foster, 30, has combined studying for a foundation degree in community sports development with a demanding job, and was described by his lecturer as an exceptional student with a lot of energy and passion for the community sports industry.

Hayley Evans and Irene Howells, both students in Blaenau Gwent, also took home awards after being described as inspirational and enthusiastic by their tutors.

Miss Evans, 33, undertook a bite-size introductory course to working with young people in Tredegar, while mature student Mrs Howells, 57, completed a foundation degree in the same subject in Ebbw Vale.

Course tutor Emma Chivers said she nominated Miss Evans as she felt that she had overcome significant barriers in order to participate in the course and had so much to give from a professional perspective.

Mrs Howells was described by her tutor as an inspirational, motivated and enthusiastic learner who is committed to being the best student she can be.

Craig Smith, 43, from Cwmtillery, studied at Coleg Morgannwg Nantgarw and was named learner of the year for the whole college after completing a foundation degree in sustainable construction and surveying.

After a long career in construction, he was told that he could not continue on the tools due to a chronic back complaint. Through his new qualification he has obtained a position as site supervisor.

Part of the University of South Wales, UHOVI provides opportunities to study higher education courses at venues across the valleys.