ONE of Durham's biggest employers has been praised by Prince Charles for its work in supporting Britain's reserve forces.

William Styles, deputy governor of Durham Prison, attended a reception at Highgrove at which 120 employers from across the country were represented.

The Prince of Wales praised the important role of the reserve forces and personally thanked the employers who release their workforce for service.

In all, HMP Durham employs 19 reservists - five of whom were called up for service in Iraq.

Mr Styles said: "I believe it is important to support our reservists.

"They perform an important role for the nation and the skills and experience they gain makes them valuable employees. We give them our full support."