Last updated 17:41, Wednesday, 24 September 2008

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THE BEST: Tutors Malcolm McAnn (left) and Joe Murphy (right) with apprentices David Nicholson, Adam Lyle and Steven Irvine LINDSEY DICKINGS REF: 0448998

FACING exams is tough at any time of life – especially more than 20 years after leaving school.

Brian Johnson, 42, is one of a group of seven local authority workers to be presented with Skills for Life certificates from Barrow mayor Councillor Dave Roberts.

For the last two years employees from Barrow Borough Council’s playgrounds maintenance team, and Ray Street, who works for SITA, have been working towards literacy and numeracy awards.

The group,which also includes Michael Dickinson, Clive Andrews, Colin Brock, Martin Kayes and Alexander McConnell, all returned to study with the help of tutors from Barrow Sixth Form College.

The college staff led all the teaching in the men’s workplace at Barrow Park’s pavilion.

The tutors would work with the men for two hours a week.

The park maintenance work involved making sure that the areas are kept safe and tidy.

Elements of the training focused on tasks that were realistic to the workplace, such as measuring.

Mr Johnson, who has worked for the council for 20 years said: “It’s been fantastic. I feel proud because I’ve worked hard. I want to carry on studying. The tutors have been fantastic.”

Keith Johnson, Barrow council’s community services manager, told the group: “I feel really proud of your achievements.

“I think it’s smashing that you have stuck in and shown a lot of enthusiasm.”

Mr Johnson also thanked the college for the partnership it has built with the council for the training programme.

Cllr Roberts said: “I think what you have achieved is remarkable. You have to be proud of yourselves. I know we are very proud as a council.”

David Kelly, the principal of Barrow Sixth Form said he admired people who returned to education at a certain age.

He said: “Congratulations gentlemen, it’s absolutely fantastic achievement.”

Mr Kelly said the men had his admiration for making a return to study.

For further detail about Skills for Life training contact Heather Bradbury at Barrow Sixth Form on 01229 828377.