AN 18-year-old from Sale has beaten off competition from 700 applicants to land a £9,000 scholarship from the University of Central Lancashire.

Sarah Garrett who lives with her parents and 10-month-old daughter will now go on to study a BA in care, community and citizenship.

She said: "I was very concerned about financial issues when applying to university as I needed to fund childcare for Faith.

"I received the letter about the Make a Difference scholarship and decided to have a go and apply. I didn't have anything to lose and I really needed the help.

"I was so excited when I found out I had been awarded the scholarship I couldn't believe it. Now I can concentrate on my degree and not have to worry about paying for childcare."

Sarah along with nine other recipients of the scholarship will be entitled to up to £3,000 per year.