A FORMER pupil of Ysgol Uwchradd Aberteifi, who received a brain trauma in a traffic accident at the age of eight, has been awarded a PhD from Cambridge University.

Christopher Ashling of Blaenporth, overcame difficulties with concentration arising from the injury and – helped by the support from teachers – set off on his path to academic success.

The 27-year-old has now accepted the offer of a Fellowship at the University of Kyoto in Japan and is preparing to move there with his partner and four-year-old son.

Chris completed his GCSEs and A-levels at Cardigan, followed by a Masters Degree in Chemistry from Cardiff University.

Having worked in industry for a year he then began studying for his PhD in Metal Organic Frameworks at Girton College, Cambridge.

Although Covid and its accompanying restrictions meant much of Chris’s time was spent studying at home with limited access to laboratories, he successfully completed his studies and was awarded his PhD at a ceremony in Senate House, Cambridge.

Despite his imminent move to Japan, Chris says his heart will remain in Wales and hopes to return home in due course.