A FASHION student from Northwich has finally been able to toast her success, her graduation plans were delayed by the pandemic.

Rebecca Molyneux from Cuddington has finally received her first class degree in Fashion Design & Technology from Manchester Metropolitan University.

For Rebecca, the Covid outbreak also meant a dash for home, after she managed to get one of the last flights out of Sri Lanka – where she was on a work placement for fashion retailer Next – before the country went into lockdown.

"Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful countries I have had the pleasure of visiting and living in so far.

"In March 2020, I was in Colombo carrying out my placement.

"I had just returned from Singapore on a long weekend away, during which, the virus had started to spread and I experienced my first sight of locals/tourists wearing masks and rules and regulations effecting my travels.

"Upon my return cases had begun spreading in Sri Lanka and on March 16, Sri Lanka set a national holiday for businesses to help with the spread of the virus.

"Four days later I left Sri Lanka on one of the last few remaining flights out before the national lockdown.

"Although I did not complete a full year's placement, the eight months I spent doing it have helped me greatly towards finishing my degree and getting into the fashion industry."

Northwich Guardian:

Rebecca was on a work placement in Sri Lanka when the pandemic hit

Fashion and the arts are always something that have interested Rebecca, finding it a strong suit for her education.

"I was interested in fashion like anyone growing up," she said.

"But when I went to Mid Cheshire Cheshire College, that’s when my creative studies lead me towards fashion-based subjects and finally to a diploma project based around making clothing and the study of pattern cutting and design.

"My peers and education have been my biggest influence while Instagram currently influences a lot of my work which can be a great tool for people looking into what’s new and eye catching.

"I wish to move abroad again or move towards London.

"I currently work for a fast fashion retailer in Manchester as an assistant designer which is an amazing start to my career and will hopefully allow me to travel and design."

Northwich Guardian:

After delays due to Covid, Rebecca has finally had her graduation

Rebecca was full of praise for her family for their support, both emotionally and financially, with mum and dad Helen and Neil, who are both teachers speaking of their pride.

They added: "We are so proud to see her collect her degree especially a “first” when she had to fight so hard to achieve it.

"The ceremony was very special with all her family either in attendance or watching the live feed on line."