LIZ Barnes is the first student in Wales to gain a degree in voluntary sector studies.

She will go to Lampeter on July 1 to collect her 2.1 honours degree after finishing her studies by distance learning.

"It's taken me seven years to finish the work," said former teacher Mrs Barnes, 57, of Haven Way, Abergavenny,

"The university is very excited as this is a new degree and there are only four of us in Britain who have gained it so far."

The degree included modules on how to manage volunteers, chair meetings, write policies, disabilities, homelessness and drug addiction.

Devised at Lampeter, Mrs Barnes undertook it in three levels.

Some of the modules weren't even written when Mrs Barnes embarked upon her studies.

:The course was being devised as I went along," she said. "Doing it part-time meant I could manage my own time which was invaluable for someone like myself who has mobility problems."

Mrs Barnes has arthritis and couldn't go to a college as she finds some seats unsuitable and needs to move about at her own pace.

She says she can't be walking and running around but has to manage her arthritis.

"I've done voluntary work with Arthritis Care in Caerphilly helping to set up Challenge Arthritis," said Mrs Barnes.

"Having the illness since 1990 has meant an end to my teaching days although I am a trainer with Walking the Way to Health group which encourages everyone to walk once a week."

She says the other advantage working from home is that it allows you to deal with any setbacks like when her husband, Wayne, had to have heart surgery in 2003.

"Wayne used to teach in Brynmawr Comprehensive School," said Mrs Barnes.

"He's very excited about my achievement and is looking forward to seeing me in my cap and gown."

Mother of Helen, 29 and Hugh, 25, Mrs Barnes plans a sedate spell after the ceremony next week.

"I love craft work and I'm involved with Llantilio Pertholey WI. There's plenty to keep me going and I'm looking forward to some serious reading."