After checking into rehabilitation for his alcohol problems, Darren Kilvington knew he was running out of time if he wanted to turn his life around.

The 51-year-old was living in East Yorkshire at the time, but was sent to a residential centre in Workington.

During his stay he discovered that a fellow resident was weighing up whether to sign up to the engineering course at Lakes College at Lillyhall.

He decided to put his own name forward and hasn't looked back.

Now Darren's transformation is well on the way to being complete and is fully embracing the chance to start his life afresh. 

Darren says: "Drink cost me my home and I was sofa surfing. I've worked all my life, but it only became a problem when I got made redundant. 

"I found out through him that there was no age limit and I came along on the enrolment day. 

"I was honest right from the start about where I was from and my situation. I was so happy when I found out I could sign up."

Darren began the course in September 2014 and could stay on at the college for up to six years.

He spent 17 years working as a deep sea trawlerman as well as 15 years working in the engineering sector and hopes his studies can get him back into the industry.

Despite being the oldest student on the course, Darren has won a student of the month award and was also shortlisted for the Against All Odds prize at CN Group's Education and Learning Awards, known as the Golden Apples.

He adds: "The age gap was what I was a bit worried about. When we started I had a father effect on the kids and they've turned out to be a really good group.

"It's been marvellous. I've learned a whole manner of techniques.

"It's put a whole new perspective on life. It's been life-saving for me. It's given me a whole new spin on life again."

During his first year Darren studied at the college while he was still in rehabilitation, but is now lives at Bowness Court in Workington.

He still returns to rehab to take part in quiz nights and is also a peer mentor for first year students.

He hopes to study at the college for as long as possible, but is also hoping a permanent job is on the horizon.

Darren says: "I'm hoping to get back into employment in Cumbria. I did have an offer from Tata Steel, but I'm enjoying the college. I'll take it as far as it can go.

"My ideal situation would be a permanent job and the college or possibly working here.

"I'm committed to the college and I will take it as far as I can."