A DOUBLE celebration took place at Bury College, which has been praised for its adult learners' provision.

The college was awarded the national Quality Mark by the Basic Skills Agency, an award given to organisations who demonstrate competence in provision of basic Maths and English education for adults.

Particular support and assistance is given to those who are returning to learn after years out of education, and those with learning difficulties.

College principal Helen Gilchrist said: "We are delighted to have been awarded the BSA national kitemark for quality. It is a credit to the achievements and efforts of students and staff on our adult programmes."

At the same time, four adult students were presented with certificates from NIACE, the national association for adult learning. Students Yvonne Waddington, Florence Leeming, Janet Ogden and Debra Ball were nominated by their college tutors for achievement and commitment to their course.

Enid Cathcart, a college tutor said: "All four students are shining examples of how beneficial lifelong learning can be to all people in the community."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.