Ex-burglar 'offered' study place

Majid Ahmed was convicted of burglary in 2005

A Bradford student rejected by a London medical college because of his criminal record has been given a conditional offer by a different university.

Imperial College told Majid Ahmed, 18, his "spent" burglary conviction meant he could not study to be a doctor.

The BBC understands Mr Ahmed, who got four A grades at A-level, has been offered a place at Manchester University, subject to final checks.

He said: "It's been a long journey over the last two years."

After Mr Ahmed revealed his conviction ahead of a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check, Imperial College said the teenager could not be trusted as a doctor.

I was a young lad and I have learnt my lesson Majid Ahmed

In November 2005 Mr Ahmed was convicted of burglary and given a four-month community order.

For under-18s in England the law considers such a conviction to be "spent" as soon as the community service is finished.

The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 states anyone wishing to be employed in the medical profession must always declare a "spent" conviction in applications to work or study.

Manchester University rejected his application last year, but after an appeal against its decision the BBC understands he has been given a conditional offer.

Mr Ahmed said: "It was a very minor offence. I'm not a career criminal. I was a young lad and I have learnt my lesson."