A FORMER Rossendale mayor has proved he’s a class act after completing a university degree at the age of 70.

Trevor Unsworth will graduate in October after gaining a 2:2 joint honours in Sociology and History from Blackburn College.

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And to prove that education can span the generations, he’s been studying alongside his two granddaughters who are half-a-century his junior.

Mr Unsworth said: “I had been thinking about further education since retiring as a store manager at the Co-op when I was 58, but I never dreamed that I would be able to go on to study at university.

“I was nervous about going back into education after more than 50 years and when I sat my first exam I couldn’t stop shaking.

“But I have absolutely loved studying at Blackburn College’s University Centre.”

A former Hareholme ward representative, Trevor served on Rossendale Council from 2002 until he stepped down following his spell as mayor in 2011.

He left school at 15 and originally thought it would be impossible to return to studying.

But after speaking to college staff at his local library, the keen historian was accepted onto the course that is approved by Lancaster University.

Despite being registered blind and having a number of other health conditions, he passed with flying colours.

He added: “I’ve met some wonderful people and the course teachers have been so supportive.

“They provided a note-taker to support with writing different information as well as offering other forms of support.”

Mr Unsworth’s experience proved a real family affair as his two granddaughters are also studying at the college.

Danielle Fowler, 18, is pursuing a pre-degree diploma in Art and Design, while Stephanie Fowler, 23, is working towards a BA Hons in Design.

Judith Moss, joint honours course leader at Blackburn College’s University Centre, said: “It was a pleasure to have Trevor as a student, not only because of the hard work that he put in but also because he contributed his life experiences which in turn enriched the learning experience of his fellow students.

“He showed that age is no barrier to study and he loved the course, in particular the history element.

“The team are exceptionally proud of his achievement.”