Lydia Wilkinson graduates two years after Stourbridge tragedy
A Stourbridge woman whose mother and brother were murdered at their family home said her mum was a driving force behind her completing her university degree.
Lydia Wilkinson last week graduated from the University of Bristol with a 2:1 in biological sciences.
Lydia was in her first year at university when her mother Tracey and younger brother Pierce were killed at their Stourbridge home in March 2017.
Her father, Peter, was also stabbed but has since recovered and joined his daughter to celebrate her graduation.
Lydia had been determined to continue her studies and complete her degree – as her mother had been so proud of her being accepted onto the course at Bristol.
Lydia, who turned 21 last week, said: "I did consider taking a year out of university when everything happened. But the university supported me every step of the way which allowed me to continue with my degree.
"To graduate with my friends has been very emotional.
"I have a fantastic support network in Bristol – both friends and lecturers – who have supported me throughout my time here.
"Focusing on my studies provided a huge distraction and sense of stability for me.
"I also wanted to complete my degree for my mum - she was very proud that I had been accepted into Bristol, which also provided a great source of motivation."
Lydia has also raised more than £17,000 for Birmingham Children's Hospital through running the Birmingham Half Marathon and was also nominated for a Pride of Britain Award.
She will now continue her studies at Bristol and will embark on a master's degree in biomedical sciences in September.
