Following in his father footsteps

Robert Price suffered a personal tragedy in the final year of his Law degree at the University of Teesside. For his father Pat, who was also studying Law at the University, died suddenly from a heart attack. Despite losing his father, Robert, 32, from Hartlepool, went on to finish his LLB (Hons) degree, and aims to start a MSc in Forensic Investigation this September.

Pat Price was a former soldier who then served as a Police officer in Middlesbrough and Hartlepool for 30 years. Pat enrolled at the University following a recommendation from his son. Robert said: "Dad was in poor health when he started the course, but I know that he held the course in as high regard as I do. I was glad to recommend the Law Degree course at Teesside to him."

Robert is also a former soldier, joining the Royal Engineers as a Sapper at the age of 17. However, his army career was curtailed following an accident.

“I broke my neck as I was attempting an assault course and spent the next two and a half years in a wheelchair, “ said Robert. It was at this point that he took the first tentative steps towards an academic career by passing a number of Science ‘A’ levels.

After studying nursing, Robert switched to law. "Knowledge of the law means that you can avoid mistreatment and aid others who would normally be ripped off," added Robert.

He was impressed by the quality of the LLB (Hons) Degree course at the University. "I have already had the chance to successfully represent people in court and prevent others from being wrongfully dismissed.

"I've really enjoyed my three years at University, but with two lively young sons, David and Anthony, to care for, I've not had much chance to experience the social side of university life. Although, I have managed to be involved in the student’s union as a member of the part-time executive and have been Chair of the Law Society," said Robert.

Together with his work as town councillor for the Headland of Hartlepool ward, Robert clearly plans to make the most of his newly acquired skills to help fellow locals. He hopes to serve as well as his father did, who was the first Mayor of the Headland.

He added: “Once I’ve completed my Masters degree in Durham, I want to get involved at a community level, possibly in a teaching role.”

---