GOVERNMENT chief whip and North-West Durham MP Hilary Armstrong visited the Grove Training Nursery, in Consett, to take part in a graduation ceremony.

Ms Armstrong presented City and Guilds qualifications and National Proficiency Test Certificates to a number of clients at the nursery.

The graduates were Brian Riley, Alan Birbeck, James Parsons, Alan Minto, Tony Stevens, Darren Shield, Colin Allison, David Johnson and Kenneth Middleton.

Ms Armstrong said: "The lads have all worked really hard to achieve their qualifications and this is a very proud day for them and their families.

"The training nursery is a great facility, which offers an opportunity to learn."

The MP pledged her support for the work done at the training nursery.

She said: "I'll do what ever I can to help secure a future for it."