A student's Sherlock-like skills at a crime scene earned her a national prize.

Rona Hassan, 28, from Southgate, was crowned champion for forensic science at the Worldskills UK conference.

Studying an FdSc in forensic and crime scene investigation at City and Islington College, the 28-year-old revealed the show was an “amazing experience” at the NEC arena.

She said: “I am so proud to have received the gold medal and for City and Islington to have given me the opportunity to take part in World Skills. It was an amazing experience, and taking part let alone winning has really helped me with my confidence and drive to finish my course and pursue a career in forensics.

“We had a really supportive team of teachers and students and so everything we achieved this weekend was a team effort.”

Going up against candidates from across the UK, the student had to process a crime scene, take witness statements and present the evidence in court.

She added: “The course is fantastic. The facilities and the teachers are excellent. I would encourage other students interested in this area to make sure whether you are doing A Level, BTEC or Access to keep studying science subjects so that you have the opportunity to take a course like this.”

After completing her course, the Worldskills UK start said she would like to go on to teach forensic science.

David Swinscoe, director for the centre for applied sciences, said: “We are very proud of Rona’s achievement and all of the students, past students and lecturers who supported each other through the process. Studying forensics requires an extremely high level of skill, and as a college we are proud that students can develop to such a high level that they can progress to vital and rewarding careers.”

Charlotte Huck, 19, who is also studying forensic and crime scene investigation at the college, picked up the silver medal.