A student from the Isle of Man has been named as one of his university’s Undergraduate Students of the Year.

Richard Wild is studying dentistry at the University of Manchester and has won the honour as top student in the Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences.

Each faculty – there are four – recognises its leading undergraduate each year with a medal.

The 22-year-old, a former pupil of Laxey Primary School and Ramsey Grammar School, said the award – earned by being an active year representative and participating in a number of societies – meant a lot to him.

‘They look for students who engage in a wide range of extra-curricular activities while maintaining their academic performance, contribute to the curriculum, overcome difficulties and enhance other students’ experience at the university,’ Richard explained.

‘I am a fairly self-critical person but receiving this award has made me happy and has helped me realise how much I actually get round to doing.’

Richard said he will be ‘very proud’ to receive his medal from Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, president and vice-chancellor of the university, at a ceremony on June 29th. His parents Tony Wild MLC and Janet Wild, of Laxey, will be among guests helping him to celebrate at the ceremony and at a special lunch afterwards.

In his fourth year at the university’s dental school, Richard has a year of studying left before embarking on vocational training. He hopes to qualify for a second year of training as a senior house officer, back in the dental school, after that.