A journalism student was named the first winner of a prize set up in memory of a journalism lecturer and former deputy editor who died last year.

Laura Symonds, left, from the University of Sunderland scooped the first The Journal/Kevin Overbury Award for best magazine journalism student.

The award was set up in memory of Sunderland journalism lecturer Kevin Overbury, a former deputy editor of Newcastle’s The Journal who died from cancer last August at the age of 63.

Laura gained the highest mark on the magazine course and was given the surprise award as she graduated at the Stadium of Light on Monday.

She gained particular praise from academics for her final project magazine, Geekybit, as an alternative women’s magazine about technology, science, sci-fi and fantasy entertainment and fashion.

Said Laura: “It was a massive surprise and I was over the moon to hear my name when the award winner was announced. It felt incredibly special to be given the award and made all the hard work that has gone in over the past year so worthwhile.

“I certainly want to work in magazine journalism now I have finished my course. This course has given me the motivation and whetted my appetite to go and achieve my dreams.

“My dissertation magazine was different to what is available in most shops and I’d love it if I could have the opportunity to write about similar topics in the future, either online or in a magazine. I couldn’t think of a better job and I really have loved the opportunity to do just that at Sunderland.”

Alex Lockwood, her final year project tutor, added: “Laura’s project really did set out to do something different, and in that she succeeded. It was impeccably put together, and professional throughout. Laura should be very proud of what she’s achieved.”