A MUM from Ruthin has received a first class honours degree while holding down a full time job. Diane Guidera, 47, from Rhewl, was sponsored to take a BSc in occupational health and safety and environmental management by her employer, Jones Bros Ruthin (Civil Engineering) Co Ltd.

Diane had one day in college at Newi in Wrexham each week and the rest of her studying was done in her own time during evenings and weekends.

Diane, who has three children, said: “I really didn’t expect to do as well as this. I am absolutely delighted with my result.

“I left school with a handful of CSE’s, got married and had my children young so never thought I’d achieve something like this in my life.”

Diane is the health and safety advisor for Jones Bros, which employs 240 people. She started with the company seven years ago as an administrator. Since then, she has achieved three health and safety qualifications.

“I’m not sure what I’m going to do with all my free time now,” admitted Diane. “All my evenings and weekends have been taken up studying.

“I’m going to have to join a gym to fill the gap.”

Diane is safety advisor on Jones Bros largest contract to date – a £16.5m contract to build the infrastructure for one of the largest wind farms in the UK.

The 51-turbine Crystal Rig II wind farm near Dunbar in the Scottish Borders will create 40 new jobs and cement Jones Bros’ reputation as a niche wind farm balance of plant provider.
Health and safety manager, Ken Jones said: “Congratulations to Diane for her tremendous success.

“Gaining such a high classification for her degree will boost the company’s profile and strengthen further it’s ability to demonstrate full competence in health and safety management.
“Overseeing our largest project to date will mean regular visits to Scotland and the responsibility of the company’s 40 employees onsite.”

Currently, Jones Bros is carrying out infrastructure work at the major Parc Cybi industrial development near Holyhead. Last year, it completed ahead of schedule emergency rock cutting remedial works on the A5 at Ty Nant.