A SAUCHIE community development officer last week scooped an accolade as she graduated from college.

Donna McLean, who works as the community development officer at Sauchie Active8, graduated with an HNC in Working with Communities from Forth Valley College, earning an award in the process.

At a graduation ceremony held at Falkirk Town Hall last Wednesday, February 9, she was named Most Promising Student in the Department of Business and Communities.

Donna, 43 from Bainsford in Falkirk, had been out of education for more than two decades but showed it is never too late to return to learning.

She said: “I am overwhelmed at winning this award and did not expect it.

“I really did enjoy the course and it was a different experience, especially after being out of education for 26 years so it was quite hard.

“I would recommend it, but without the support of the lecturers and my fellow students I would not have been able to get the qualification for the role I am in today.”

More than 930 students were eligible to graduate from the college this year and 204 of them chose to collect their scrolls across two events at Stirling Castle and in Falkirk.

The Alloa Bowmar Pipe Band was on hand to lead in the top table and stage party at both ceremonies.

Dr Ken Thomson, college principal, added: “It has been a very difficult and challenging two years for everyone, but it is now great to see a sense of normality return across society.

“That is why we were absolutely delighted to host two excellent graduation ceremonies this week and to celebrate the tremendous efforts of all students who showed determination, skill and adaptability to successfully complete their studies despite unprecedented circumstances.”