WOOTTON Bassett student Hannah Fisher has been awarded her university degree posthumously.

Hannah, 21, was studying forensic science in her third year at De Montfort University when she was murdered last January.

With just a matter of months to go before completing her bachelor of science degree this summer, the Leicester School of Pharmacy assessment board ruled she had filed enough work to pass by aegrotat.

This is a procedure used for students who, for whatever reason, cannot sit their final exams but would have gone on to complete their course.

Hannah’s proud parents Debbie and Alan Fisher received the award from university vice-chancellor Philip Tasker during a graduation ceremony at the De Montfort Hall.

Her mum Debbie, of Marlow Way, said: “Hannah was a joy to be with,” said“She always had a smile on her face. She loved being at De Montfort University and was really looking forward to working in the field of forensic science.

“It was very emotional collecting the award. We were the only ones without a student.

“She was, and still is, greatly loved by all her family and friends and we struggle every day to get used to life without her in it.”

Hannah left the sixth form at Wootton Bassett School in 2005 after completing A-levels in biology, chemistry, English and general studies.She was found dead by Leicestershire Police at her ex-boyfriend’s house in the town of Oadby.

His body was discovered the day before, at the foot of a stairwell in the block of flats in Alexandra Road, Leicester, where they had lived together.

Mark Fowler, principal lecturer in forensic science at De Montfort University, said: “Hannah was a gifted and popular student who is missed very much by colleagues and fellow students.

“In order to recognise Hannah’s outstanding performance and contributions to the course during her studies for a Forensic Science degree at De Montfort University it was felt appropriate that some official award was made.

“The decision was taken to award her a degree, and this decision was unanimously ratified at the most recent Leicester School of Pharmacy assessment board.

“The award is indicative of the very high regard in which Hannah was held by staff and students alike.”

St Bartholomew’s Church in Wootton Bassett was illuminated in memory of Hannah on Monday, June 8.

The High Street landmark was flood-lit on Hannah’s 22nd birthday.

To pay your tributes to Hannah visit www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk or you can also visit the Facebook tribute page R.I.P Hannah Louise Fisher.