A MAN who has just obtained a maths degree says his old teachers would be surprised by his achievement.

Graham Higson, 50, said he was rubbish at maths at school.

But after signing up to an Open University course the former Barkisland shopkeeper returned to study maths, technology and the environment.

Mr Higson said: “Going back to studying was a great challenge.

“Maths was the greatest challenge I think. I was rubbish at it when I was at school.

“Now I have a certificate in it; I think my old teachers will be very surprised.”

Mr Higson ran his family’s hardware shop for 22 years but decided to return to study five years ago.

He is now looking into starting a master’s degree course at Huddersfield University this year.