A SPECIAL needs student from Lancaster University who had spent most of her life bravely battling against a heart defect has died.

19-year-old Alison Cummings, of Furness College, was in her first year studying bio-chemistry and was described by her tutors as a bright young woman.

She suffered from a congenital heart defect and had been under going treatment for about the last ten years.

A spokesman for Lancaster University said: "The fact that she had a disability did not stop her from doing lots of things. She was involved with the archery club and she was an accomplished artist."

Alison, who originally came from Lytham, had recently been awarded a bursary towards her education for her outstanding dedication.

Alan Thomson, first year director of studies in biological sciences at the university, said Alison was a very promising student.

He said: "She had lots of friends and was very dedicated and worked hard. Her physical problems did not really seem to affect her in any way."

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