HE was the Dux at Cumnock Academy four years ago.

And the honours for brainy Martin Paton keep flooding in.

This week he was celebrated by the Institute of Mathematics & its Applications for his performance at Strathclyde University.

The 21-year-old obtained a First Class Honours degree in Mathematics and Statistics after grafting his socks off for the last four years.

And in recognition of his efforts, the University put his name forward, along with one other, for recognition with the association.

It means Martin will receive a special certificate, a year’s free membership of the Institute and more letters after his name.

Speaking to the Chronicle this week, as he looks forward to his forthcoming graduation, he said: “It’s a nice honour for me and I’m pretty chuffed. It’s nice bonus after a tough few years at University. I’ve always been into maths, even at Cumnock Academy, and at school I did pretty well and won the Dux in my final year, “It’s nice to be a member of the Institute and I’m now able to put some extra letters after my name which is an extra wee bonus.

“But I've still got more work to do and start a Phd in October.” Every year the Institute of Mathematics and it’s Applications award prizes to universities and college students for their outstanding performances in Maths.

Caroline Irwin of the organisation said: “Each institution in the UK that runs IM approved courses may nominates two prize winners. Sometimes they are students who’ve made a massive improvement but usually it’s the two that receive the best results. That’s certainly the case with Martin as he got a First.

“He is an outstanding student and deserves this award for his performance.” The 21-year-old will now have AMIMA - standing for Associate Member of Institute of Mathematics and its Applications - after his name.