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Grandad proves he’s a class act

Alex Scapens
28/12/2005

RETIRED scaffolder Alan McCabe was so inspired by his grandaughter's determination to go to university that he decided to go himself.

Now he and Stephanie McGregor are both studying at Manchester University.

Stephanie, 19, of Chester Road, Hazel Grove, is one year into a business studies degree. And Alan, 65, of Forbes Close, Offerton, has recently started a part-time degree in history.

He said: "When Stephanie went through college, I decided I had always wanted to go to university. A couple of years ago, I joked that we would be at university together - and she just laughed. But now she's dead chuffed.

"We haven't met up yet, but we've said we'll have a drink at the students' union."

Alan was offered a place to read history after completing an access course in computers and law. He left school at 16 and dropped out of college to get a job.

Until 1995, when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, he had worked in the scaffolding trade. He said: "When I started at university, it did feel strange. They were young people mainly and I felt out of place. But it's all right now. They don't treat me any differently."

A university spokesman said: "Alan is a shining example of the thousands of mature students who currently study for degrees or other qualifications. Mature students make a vital contribution to the academic and social life of the university. We welcome people of all ages to our courses."