A STUDENT from Old Colwyn inspired to pursue a lifelong ambition following the tragic death of her beloved dad will realise that dream in the coming weeks.

Amber-Leigh Walker will attend the new Harper and Keele Veterinary School from September, having achieved a Distinction* in Level 3 Extended Diploma in animal management at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, near Ruthin.

“I am so happy and excited to be going to Harper and Keele,” said the former Ysgol Bryn Elian pupil, who lives in Old Colwyn with mum Kim and family.

“When my dad passed away aged just 42, I was unsure what the future would bring, but I was determined and am so glad I’ve made it.

“I’ve been through a lot these past few years, but I was never going to give up. I can’t imagine not going on to be a vet and making him proud.”

READ MORE:

LIVE: A-Level results day for students in North Wales

Growing up in a household full of pets gave Amber-Leigh a head-start in caring for creatures of all shapes and sizes, from dogs and cats to guinea pigs, hamsters, and rodents.

“I knew from a very young age I wanted to work with animals,” she added.

“When I was little and started to understand they needed to go to the ‘doctors’ I became determined that’s what I would do one day, I wanted to help them if they were sick or injured.

“To now be attending a leading veterinary school and on course to do what I love as a career is amazing, it’s a dream come true.”

For more on the land-based courses and qualifications available at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, visit: www.cambria.ac.uk.