STUDENTS from Skills for Life classes in Banbury received their end-of-year certificates last week at the town's East Street Centre.

Learners attended classes in literacy, numeracy, or English as a second or other language, at a series of venues in Banbury, including Bradley Arcade on Bretch Hill, Banbury Youth Centre at Woodgreen, and East Street.

Councillor Ann Bonner presented the awards. She said " I admire all of the students for being brave enough to take charge and control of their lives, and move forward to improve their education.

"It's not easy taking that first step to enrol and go to the first class as an adult, but the number of awards this year indicates the amount of effort that has been put in by students and teaching staff.

"I congratulate them on what must be the best year ever for performance and output, and wish them every success for the new challenges they are taking on in the future."

Course leader Sheena Bell said, "We have had a fantastic year in Banbury, with many more students taking tests and progressing on to other courses or employment."

Anyone interested in joining the classes, run by Oxfordshire County Council, should contact Jill Shelton, Lynn Dowler, or Kerry Williamson at the East Street Centre, Banbury, on 01295 265427.