A Carrickfergus man has achieved an A grade in A-Level Irish ten years after he began learning the language with no prior knowledge.

Phil Ó hEochaidh received the grade in this year's examinations through An Droichead in south Belfast. He was awarded full marks in the speaking component.

He began learning Irish while at university, after seeing free classes offered by the Cumann Gaelach. At that point he had no Irish, but he had friends who spoke the language and an interest in place names.

Within three or four months he was the only person in the beginners' class. He has said that being from a Protestant background made no difference within the Irish language community, though some people outside that community considered it unusual.

After the initial classes he attended Turas and completed a GCSE in Irish. He then studied for the A-Level with An Droichead.

He said the language has led to employment opportunities, and he has held two jobs connected to Irish. He has also appeared on television and radio and has written a book.

He previously worked with Turas in east Belfast and with Naíscoil na Seolta. He currently works with the YMCA. He is considering whether to pursue a degree in Irish.