Worcestershire | Archive | 2005 | December | 15
From the archive, first published Thursday 15th Dec 2005.
AN Astley farmer is celebrating after successfully reaching for the stars and landing top marks on a degree course.
Chris Evans, who owns the Astley Estate, has proved it is never too late to start studying after he graduated from the Open University with first class honours in astronomy and physics.
The keen stargazer, who is president of the Wolverhampton Astronomical Society, has been waiting for more than 40 years to finally realise the goal and even revised while out on his tractor.
The 63-year-old explained: "I decided to do it because it was a piece of unfinished business. I started doing a degree when I was 18 but had to pack it in to join the family business.
"It has always been in the back of my mind to do something and I am glad that I did. It was hard work but I received a lot of help and guidance from the Open University."
Mr Evans put on his cap and gown to mark the end of his five years of study at a graduation ceremony at Birmingham's Symp-hony Hall, where his wife, Josephine, accompanied him.
He said: "It was quite informal and members of the audience cheered when their family and friends were handed their degrees. That added to the atmosphere and was really nice."
The father of two is now going to spread his knowledge and give talks on astronomy to raise money for vital repairs at St Peter's Church in Astley.
Anyone is invited to the four events on January 11, 25, February 22 and March 22 at Astley Village Hall.
For more information, contact Mr Evans on 01299 821236.
© Newsquest Media Group 2008