A WOMAN from Bridestowe has been awarded straight A grades in astrophysics and journalism from Harvard University, one of the world's most prestigious educational establishments.

Amanda Aharoni, the only English woman and mature student on both courses, came top of the class after a series of both mid-term and final exams and lecture presentations at Harvard throughout the summer.

The private Ivy League research university is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Established in 1636 by the Massachusetts legislature, Harvard is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States, and is considered one of the world's most prestigious universities.

It ranks first on the Academic Ranking of World Universities, a position it has held since 2003.

Mrs Aharoni, who lives in Lord Carrington's former childhood home Millaton House, credits her success to an unshakeable can-do attitude.

She said: 'Giving a lecture on Einstein's gravitational wave theory at Harvard is not for the faint-hearted.

'I am fortunate to have studied law at both great British universities of Oxford and Cambridge, both of which gave me a superb grounding in studying hard and putting up with the toughest academic tests.

'Before moving to Devon I spent lots of time in Paris, London and New York and am used to getting things done quickly.

'Devon is certainly different in that respect.

'My advice to anyone, young or old, who wants to dream big is not to take no for an answer. It's so important not to be lame and fearful in life.

'I live by Babe Ruth's quote, and I recommend it to everyone — you just can't beat the person who won't give up.'