A Whitehaven student who was inspired to train as a doctor after learning to live with a serious medical condition has received a fully funded scholarship for his University degree course.

Jack Telford, 20, a first year medicine and surgery student at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), is the recipient of the Dr Kate Granger Scholarship, covering all tuition fees, and costs associated with clinical placements during his five year degree.

He said: "I’ve wanted to study medicine from a young age due to my own medical conditions.

“When I was 12, I was playing rugby and collapsed midway through a game. I was rushed to hospital and had many doctors' appointments, but they were all unsuccessful in diagnosing what had caused it.

“For 18 months it meant I wasn’t allowed to play any kinds of sport or do any form of exercise and that was so frustrating.

“Finally, I was diagnosed with exercise induced fainting so it was a relief to know what it was. Thankfully I was allowed to resume playing sport but had to manage my condition throughout.”

The scholarship, awarded to applicants from Cumbria, particularly Copeland or Allerdale, is jointly funded by UCLan and North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust.

Mr Telford, previously a Keswick School pupil, added: "When I found out I’d received the scholarship, I was in disbelief and was completely shocked.

"This scholarship means that I don't have to stress about a large debt waiting for me when I graduate.”