More than a dozen students were awarded diplomas as part of a horticulture project to help them find employment.

The qualifications came after months of work from those enrolled at the Clamp Hill Horticulture Project in Stanmore, run by the Shaw Trust charity.

Mayor of Harrow Councillor Ajay Maru and Harrow East MP Bob Blackman were among the guests of honour at the ceremony yesterday.

They helped present certificates to those who had completed their City and Guilds diploma in practical horticulture.

The Shaw Trust runs projects across and in Stanmore, focusing on providing employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Speaking after the ceremony Mr Blackman said: "Shaw Trust has developed a ground-breaking horticultural project that helps disabled and disadvantaged members of the local community to embark on truly fulfilling careers.

"We need more local businesses and organisations to partner with the charity's social enterprise so that more people from Harrow can be offered support and training for future careers."

Cllr Maru said: "I think the work the Shaw Trust does here is wonderful and I want to congratulate all of the students on their success.

"This is a great project that really gives a lot back into the community."

At Clamp Hill, more than 30 students learn gardening skills and sell products including plants and bulbs produced on the site.

The Shaw Trust says it has more plans for the site including expanding its woodwork and carpentry project.

It also intends to up a community shop to give its service users work experience opportunities and the chance to learn retail skills.

The Clamp Hill Horticulture Project has been running for 16 years providing training for hundreds of people in and around Harrow.