A UNIQUE scheme in which prisoners are taught to become soccer referees has been praised by the Football Association.

Presenting the first seven inmates of Camp Hill Prison at Newport with their refereeing qualifications, FA regional refs manager Janie Frampton said the scheme was a prime example of how football could benefit people in all aspects of the community.

The seven are nearing the end of their sentences for crimes including serious assault and drugs and motoring offences.

On release, they can register with their local FAs to referee at local league level, although if they are good enough they can graduate all the way through the ranks to Premiership standard.

Mrs Frampton said: "Far from being intimidated by the candidates, I found them absolutely courteous and dedicated - more so than others I have come across," she said.

"The FA was delighted to get involved with this refereeing course because it believes that anyone who wants to take part in any aspect of football should be allowed to do that."

One of the graduates, West Ham fan Ronnie Smith, who is serving a four-year sentence for assault occasioning grievous bodily harm, said: "The course has gone very well for me and I will look to get involved reffing Sunday league matches when I am released.

"I am not sure how far I will take it- we will have to see how the ball rolls but it is good to have a skill like this up my sleeve."

The five-week course was run by prison physical education officer Glenn Woodford under the direction of Mrs Frampton.

Glenn said he was keen to set up a "realistic and tangible" course.

"The qualification also fitted in with the Prison Service's policy on resettlement and prisoner employability on release, as well as meeting the PE department's aims of education through PE.

"The inmates have emerged with new skills that are in demand across the country, thus making them employable and able to possibly forge a career in sport."