STAFF and volunteers at a young offenders' institution have been celebrating the success of an adult support group.

As part of the scheme, volunteers are invited to work with young men at the Deerbolt Young Offenders' Institution, in Barnard Castle, supporting them with literacy and numeracy skills.

Tutors are given training and the opportunity to achieve a City and Guilds initial basic skills certificate.

To thank the volunteers, a presentation evening was held.

Among those honoured was volunteer tutor Tony Thompson, who was given a commemorative award for his outstanding service to the adult literacy volunteer group.

He said: "Through superb teamwork, the volunteers help the lads learn things we take for granted.

"Things like form-filling, reading and self-conduct, along with basic interview techniques, that will hopefully help break down the wall that is in front of them, and get them into an environment that can give them a better future."

The programme is always looking for new volunteer tutors who might be able to use their experiences as a stepping stone to a career in teaching.

Anyone interested in becoming a tutor can obtain details by contacting Maria Waddington, at the Deerbolt education department, on (01833) 637561, extension 322.