A 94-year-old great-grandmother was crowned national adult learner of the year after she took refuge in the classroom following the death of her daughter.

Margaret Isherwood from Fairfield started studying at Priestley College on one of its adult learner programmes 11 years ago and has had her head glued in a book ever since.

The student, who despite her age has more energy than most teenagers, said: “I got breathing difficulties shortly after my daughter died so I decided to do a course on aromatherapy to help me with my these problems and I have just carried on doing courses ever since.”

After finishing the course in aromatherapy, Margaret completed a study in hot stones massage, a Know Your Rights class and an IT email course to name but a few.

Margaret has no interest in slowing down either - the great-grandmother has recently started a soup and toiletries course.

The 94-year-old, who also completed a degree in holistic therapies from Salford University just before her 90th birthday, said: “I always wanted to do more studying and Priestley College gave me the chance to do that.”

To celebrate her achievements, Margaret is heading down to London on Saturday to pick up her award in person.

Margaret, who is one of the oldest students at Priestley College, said: “When Sandra [a teacher at Priestley College] told me I had won I couldn’t stop laughing. I couldn’t believe it.”