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Back to main news pageCustody Officer Nominated for Butler Trust Award
The Portsmouth News
A custody officer who works at Portsmouth Crown Court has been commended for his efforts at educating children.
Keith Balston was nominated for a Butler Trust Award by his employers, Reliance, for his work with school pupils who visit the court.
Mr Balston, who has worked as a dock officer in the city for more than 10 years, regularly gives talks to students and school children who come to the court.
The 68-year-old from Southsea gives up his time to explain to court visitors what his job involves and how he goes about it on a daily basis.
Mr Balston said: ‘I’ve always enjoyed working with children. When I left the Royal Navy I used to tutor pupils from local school in woodwork.
‘I’d like to think that I remove a bit of the stereotypical idea the children might have about custody officers and explain what my daily routine involves.
‘Anything I can do with young people to help keep them out of the criminal justice system has got to be a good thing and I’m happy to do it.’
Mr Balston was nominated for the award by his boss at Reliance without him knowing.
He added: ‘When I got a phone call from the Butler Trust to say I had been given this award I had a tear in my eye. It’s something I’m very proud of.’
Mr Balston and his family travelled to Bristol where he was presented with a certificate of nomination by one of Reliance’s directors.
He received a framed nomination certificate from the Butler Trust Award scheme although he did not receive a Butler Trust Award.
Butler Trust awards are one of the most sought after awards for people working with offenders in the UK.