A MAN whose studies for a degree were interrupted by five heart attacks and a serious motorbike accident has revealed his joy at finally graduating - a day he thought he 'would never see.'

Paul Waddington, 42, of Valley View, Chorley, quit his job with Stagecoach in 1995 to pursue his academic ambitions.

He began a degree in psychology at the University of Central Lancashire, but was unable to complete his studies after a motorbike accident left him with severe back injuries with three metal pins in his lower vertebrae.

After a long recovery, Paul resumed his course with the Open University in January 2002 only to suffer a series of heart attacks which afflicted him throughout the rest of the year.

He said: "I had just got on track after the accident when the heart trouble started, but I was determined to finish off the course this time.

"The Open University were great with me. They sent me talking books and I had tuition from my hospital bed.

"Once I left hospital they assessed my needs from home and provided me with a laptop and workstation and ensured that I had the best chance to continue." In October, 2003, Paul took one of his final exams the day before undergoing five bypass grafts during a major heart operation. He passed the test with flying colours and since the surgery, his health has improved.

He said: "After the last operation I was able to complete my final year and complete the degree in psychology and business. I'm looking at it as a new start and am hoping to find work related to the degree.

"During all the health problems I truly thought it was a day I would never see."

Paul's graduation ceremony was held at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester, where he was joined by his proud wife Karen.