The Derby Telegraph is teaming up with the University of Derby to offer five readers a free scholarship worth £9,000 to cover the cost of a three-year degree course.

The national introduction of new tuition fees means that potential students might feel they can’t afford to carry on in education, while many are unaware that loans and grants are available, depending on income and means.

But the five people selected to enroll on one of the DET scholarships will not have to pay anything in tuition feels - while still being eligible to apply for the loans and grants available to normal students.

The five selected will have the chance to study subjects such as art, design technology, law, computing, business, psychology, health, education, earth sciences, travel and tourism amongst others.

The idea for the promotion for students over 21 came about during one of editor Steve Hall's regular meetings with local movers and shakers in and around Derby.

Vice-chancellor professor John Coyne said: "This competition shows how open and accessible the university is and that it is never too late to return to learning.

"Well qualified people will enhance the economy of the area and so its win-win for everyone."

The university has a large percentage of mature students over the age of 21. This reiterates John Coyne’s comments that it is never too late to return to learning.

Mum of seven Rosemary Shepherd (47) is just one example of someone whose life has been changed because of her return to education at university, she is now a full time lecturer after graduating from university with a BA education degree.

Telegraph editor Steve Hall said: "People like Rosemary have transformed their lives by returning to learning.

"It is exciting to think that there are budding designers, scientists and engineers out there who have yet to take that step but in three years could have totally transformed their lives."

Also backing the competition is university lecturer Derek Walton.

The head of earth sciences said: "Everyone is involved in the students' experience and the university has some of the most accessible academies in the higher education system."