TO OLDLY GO

Student takes her Aberdeen University badge in to orbit on Virgin Galactic's tourist flight

- CHRISTOPHER BUCKTIN

PARKINSON'S sufferer Jon Goodwin yesterday became Britain's oldest astronaut when he soared into space with Virgin Galactic.

The 80-year-old and chief astronaut Beth Moses emerged with fellow crew members student Anastatia Mayers, 18, and her mum Keisha Schahaff, 46-to a heroes' welcome following the flight, which took off from Spaceport America in the New Mexico desert.

Anastatia took a little piece of Scotland with her - an Aberdeen University badge. She also had a ring from someone who means a lot to her and photos of the most important people in her life.

After the trip, she said: "I hope it's motivation for other young people to dedicate their time and efforts to reaching their goals." Anastatia admitted said she had some last-minute nerves. She said: "Last night, I was getting second thoughts a little bit. But this morning I sat up in bed and felt, 'I am ready".

Keisha took a crystal bracelet given to her by her husband and an Israeli flag, which represents his nation, as well as Antiguan sand and a shell from the beach.