The achievements of 300 students were recognised at a training programme's celebration evening, where certificates were presented by Ron Martin co-owner of Southend United Football Club.

Jennifer Cashman, who runs the scheme, said: "We put on a celebration evening once a year to acknowledge the superb achievements of all our students and give them the recognition they deserve.

"The voluntary sector plays a key part in our community and it's great to see volunteers improve their skills and knowledge to make a real difference to those they are helping as well as themselves."

The Advance Partnership training programme is aimed specifically at supporting and developing the workplace skills of the local voluntary organisations and community groups in Southend.

Students come from all areas of the voluntary sector.

Courses vary from basic counselling skills, to the Human Rights Act and a wide range of IT programmes.

They are all provided free of charge.

Published Tuesday, April 29, 2003

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