Offenders' award at Bolton Abbey village hall (From Ilkley Gazette)

Offenders' award at Bolton Abbey village hall

9:00pm Friday 2nd November 2012 in Local news

Offenders making positive steps towards a crime-free future through developing basic and vocational skills celebrated their achievements during an awards ceremony at Bolton Abbey Village Hall.

Wharfedale Beekeepers Association invited funders and supporters to celebrate as MP Julian Smith presented offenders and volunteers with certificates after completing courses in construction, rural skills and beekeeping.

As part of their qualifications, offenders on community orders, or as part of their license from prison, carried out work including joinery, dry stone walling and planting.

Wharfedale Beekeepers Association chairman, Simon Croker, said: “This scheme helps remove barriers, giving offenders the chance to achieve vital qualifications.”