The wheels of success turn round for Richard

Cycling has led to a new career in Physiotherapy for Richard King. Keen cyclist Richard first thought about moving into Physiotherapy during a massage after a racing event.

The move has paid off, for Richard will graduate today from the University of Teesside with a BSc (Hons) degree in Physiotherapy and also receive a prize for outstanding achievement on the course. In addition, Richard is now working in his first Physiotherapy post at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

Richard, 28, from Darlington, has won three North East distance cycling championships, covering 90 miles for each ride. He has followed an unconventional route to University. After leaving school at 16, Richard worked in bars around Europe for four years, before returning to Darlington as an assistant bar manager. At the age of 23, he enrolled on an Access Course, where he achieved three distinctions.

Richard said: “I really enjoyed the degree, the balance of academic and practical was ideal for me. Teesside was my first choice, it has everything you need and the lecturers have real expertise.”

Richard was diagnosed as dyslexic at primary school, but this hasn’t held him back. He said: “The University gave me a computer with special spell checking facilities and the lecturers also understood that I needed a bit longer with essays. I’m pleased to receive this award, it’s made the sacrifices worthwhile. Physiotherapy is an interesting career, you’re dealing with different people every day. I’d like to thank my wife Janet and my parents Dave and Patricia for their brilliant support during my studies.”

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