A student who was keen to study science at Aberystwyth University despite not having A-levels in the required subjects is right on target having graduated this year with a first-class degree in ecology.

Alex Newnes, from Rhos-on-Sea, originally embarked on a life sciences foundation degree at IBERS, but transferred to an ecology BSc degree.

He is now studying for an MSc in managing the environment and intends to become an environmental consultant.

However, academic excellence is not the only string to Alex’s bow as during his time in Aberystwyth has become an accomplished archer.

Inspired by watching popular films such as The Lord of the Rings he decided to try his hand and join the Aber Archers club.

He was voted as men’s captain last year, and is now president of the club.

See next week’s south editions for the full story