A MEMORIAL prize for a student who tragically died in 2004 was handed out yesterday at Huddersfield University.

Victoria Frith, 26, of Stalybridge, Greater Manchester, was awarded the Zoe Crowther Prize for her outstanding achievements during her first year at university.

Mrs Frith is now in her second year studying for a BA Honours degree in Creative Textile Crafts.

Her two-year-old daughter, Betsy, accompanies her every day, spending her time in the university campus creche.

Mrs Frith said: "I'm so proud to have been acknowledged for this award.

"I am over the moon that all the hard work I have put in has paid off.

"It makes it very difficult when you have also got a child to look after."

The Zoe Crowther award was set up in 2005 as a lasting tribute to the mother of two. The award often goes to mature students with children.

Zoe died in a crash on the M1 in August 2004 the night of her wedding to Paul Williams. The couple lived in Newsome.

Zoe's mother Inez said: "Zoe was an outstanding student who went out of her way to help fellow students and she took great pride in doing so.

"This award is a great tribute to her memory and often goes out to those students who show similar traits to Zoe.

"I am very proud that the award continues to be carried out each year."

Mrs Frith was very surprised to be awarded with this prize, saying she is just like any other student but with the added pressure of bringing up a child.

Friend and fellow coursemate of Mrs Frith, Carmel Dempsey, said: "Vicky is 100% dedicated to what she is doing and this shows in the work she produces."

Mrs Frith added: "It is so nice that people have thought of me and valued me enough to put me in the same category as Zoe.

"She was obviously a great person and is very much missed. I am proud to accept this award."