Last updated 15:54, Wednesday, 22 October 2008

ONE of the top winners on the night was chemistry student Katie Bell, who received £200 for her prize – Best Overall HE Student.

The prize, sponsored by Studsvik UK, was presented in recognition of the outstanding work she produced while studying for her HNC in applied chemistry. Over the two years of her course Katie gained a remarkable 10 distinctions, one for every unit she completed.

Mark Lyons, president of Studsvik UK, said: “We are delighted to be able to acknowledge, celebrate and contribute towards Katie’s ongoing scientific studies. The environmental challenges of the future will have to be met by the detailed application of science and we wish Katie every success.”

Katie originally studied theology at Durham University, graduating in 2003, but she wanted to pursue a career in science. In 2006 she became a junior analyst at Sellafield, where she has worked ever since.

Katie, 26, said: “Studying at college has been really useful and has certainly contributed to my development.”

Katie has already started the HND in applied chemistry at Lakes College and plans to continue on to a BSc in chemistry when it is validated by the University of Cumbria.