IT'S not often that a mum brings home more homework than her kids but in Hazel Murray's case studying has become part of her everyday routine.

Now the super scholar has been praised by the Soroptimists International Society for her efforts to give her family a brighter future.

Single mum Hazel, 33, from Lowton, balances bringing up three young children, with working in a Post Office and studying for a university degree.

On Saturday, as part of Adult Learners' Week, she was named one of the Learners of the Year in a ceremony to reward adult learners who had overcome personal difficulties to achieve in the classroom.

Hazel's children, Daniel, 12, Rachael, 8 and Thomas, 7, saw her pick up the award at a ceremony in Warrington.

She's been studying at Warrington Collegiate and has now been offered a university place to study health psychology.

A delighted Hazel said: "It's been difficult and challenging but something I've really enjoyed. Sometimes it means revising late at night but the children are really good and help me study by keeping as quiet as they can!"

Pat Kitto, of Warrington Collegiate, said Helen was an inspiration: "She was determined to provide a stable background for her children and has been balancing family duties with working and study."