Lisa Potts-Webb, the nursery machete heroine, qualifies as nurse

Mrs Potts-Webb said the events of 1996 were still part of her life

A woman who risked her life shielding youngsters from a machete-wielding attacker has graduated as a nurse.

Lisa Potts-Webb was awarded the George Medal in 1997 after protecting children at a nursery in Wolverhampton, where she worked.

Horrett Campbell was found guilty of seven counts of attempted murder following the 1996 attacks.

Mrs Potts-Webb, who suffered severe head cuts in the ordeal, has qualified from Wolverhampton University.

The 38-year-old, who runs the charity Believe to Achieve, completed a three-year Diploma of Higher Education in Nursing.

'Machete memory lingers'

Mrs Potts-Webb, who has two sons, said: "Graduating is all about what I have achieved through hard work and study over the last three years.

"What happened 17 years ago in that playground is a part of my life.

"I am very open if people ask me about it. But since then I have continued on a great journey, which has been fantastic.

"It's been great to have been a mature learner. I have to say juggling study with two kids and a busy life with the charity work as well was tough.

"I found it very hard to start with but I'm so glad that I did it - it's been a great experience."

Mrs Potts-Webb now hopes to continue studying to qualify as a health visitor.