A Quinton single mum of seven is celebrating after scooping a prestigious national award.

Dawn Stokes, (left) of Quinton Road West, received an Individual Learner Award as part of this year's Adult Learners' Week.

The 36-year-old is building a career in the construction industry having gained a variety of trade qualifications and is now taking a job at Sandwell College so she can pass her skills on to others.

She was presented with the gong, which recognised her commitment to learning, at a ceremony at London's Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre on May 21.

Dawn said: "I'm really proud to get the award but everything I have got out of bricklaying is reward enough.

"The job at the college starts off as part-time to see how I settle in.

"We will see what happens from there."

After being spurred on to join the construction trade following the death of her bricklayer father two years ago, she has successfully managed to juggle her roles as mum and student with help from her own mum.

Dawn also received praise for her efforts from Quinton MP Gisela Stuart, who attended the awards presentation.

Gisela said: "Dawn's story should be an inspiration for others.

"She has worked hard to achieve her aims in an industry not traditionally seen as female friendly and won through."