A FORMER resident of Yelverton has shown how courage and determination can triumph over adversity.

Michael Pearn, aged 31, has cerebral palsy spastic quadriplegia, incurred at birth.

And yesterday (Wednesday) he was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy degree at the University of Exeter at a summer graduation ceremony.

It was understood that when he started his PhD course in September 2004 Michael was the most disabled post-graduate at that time, embarking on such a course in the country.

His PhD majored on issues relating to people with disabilities. He spoke to 350 visitors — both disabled and enabled bodies — at historic places, including Lanhydrock and Morwellham Quay to discuss issues over access.

He said: 'I wanted to find out how to improve disabled access within historic buildings. I want to improve access but also blend it with the historic style of the buildings.'

On his thoughts over his future, Michael said: 'I would like to carry on the research at Exeter University and get paid for it and get more people together to form a team to help me, and to also work alongside the National Trust and English Heritage.'

On being awarded the PhD he said: 'It has take a little while longer than expected, but it's good to get there at last. It's been good fun and I have made a good bunch of friends.'

Michael previously attended the University College of St Mark and St John where he was awarded a BA degree in July 2002, and an MA the following year.

Although confined to a wheelchair, Michael lives independently in Efford, Plymouth, and has a dedicated team of personal assistants ensuring he could undertake his studies.

Before university, Michael was a pupil of Meavy Primary School then attended for 13 years Treloar School and College in Hampshire for pupils and students with disabilities.

It was at the school that he combined schoolwork with an intensive physiotherapy programme.

It was as a result of the physiotherapy, combined with speech and occupational therapies, that enabled Michael to pursue a life, resulting in success.

In 1997 Michael was invited to Buckingham Palace where he was presented with the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.

In addition to his ongoing research commitments, Michael intends to lecture on disability issues at universities and conferences in the UK and abroad.

He has already held discussion groups for young people at local schools and colleges to increase awareness of disability and how to overcome its disadvantages. Michael hopes to expand these groups over a wider area and to include other organisations.