A VIP presentation at Burnley FC's Turf Moor ground was the well-earned reward for four local Prince's Trust volunteers.

They had just completed the Trust's 12-week self-development course, learning a wide range of skills and working to benefit the local community.

The four young men from West Craven were among other volunteers from across Pendle taking part in the latest course. They were Carl Gardner, James Garnett and Mark Rothwell, all from Earby, and Travis Bentley, from Barnoldswick.

The Prince's Trust Volunteers course is run by Lancashire Fire and Rescue across most of the county, with the local scheme based at the Open Door Centre, in Colne. One of the project workers is former West Craven policeman Jim Hollingworth, who is enjoying his new challenge after retiring from the force.

Jim works with young people on the course, who are mostly unemployed, to develop leadership skills, communication skills, teamwork and confidence building through a variety of activities.

Each course includes a community project, which this time was a major project to refurbish gardens and open up a disused path at St Leonard's School, in Padiham. That project, which involved the four West Craven volunteers, has been submitted for a national Prince's Trust award.

Jim explained that throughout the 12-week course, the volunteers also get training in health and safety, basic first aid, fire safety, and leadership, gaining certificates in each area.

"At the end of the course they should have a portfolio of qualifications that will significantly improve their employability," said Jim. "Completing the course should demonstrate to potential employers that these are able young people who are keen to learn and become part of a team."

The completion of the course was marked by a presentation at at Turf Moor. Among the VIP guests were Burnley and Pendle MPs Peter Pike and Gordon Prentice, the Mayor of Burnley Coun Gordon Birtwistle and the Chief Fire Officer for Lancashire, Peter Holland.