Newport-based Bisley Office Equipment has become a gold partner of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award - the first company in Wales to do so.

More than 10,000 young people across Wales take on the challenge of a Duke of Edinburgh's Award each year. These involves young people aged between 14 and 25 learning a new skill, taking part in a physical activity, undertaking a volunteering project, and completing an arduous expedition which can range from 15 to 50 miles.

Bisley was keen to support the key principle of the award in being Open to All'.

The award programme is now much more accessible to a wide range of young people from those with a disability through to many who are disaffected or not engaged in education. The award in Wales has seen some staggering results from its work with young people from within the Criminal Justice System and has proved to be an amazing tool in turning the lives of young people around and making them better citizens.

Ian Gwilym, award operations manager, said: "It was quiet clear from our recent visit to Bisley that the ethos of the firm and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award are very similar. Both organisations try to install confidence, team work, self motivation, leadership, consideration and the ability to learn in their people. We are thrilled that Bisley have become our first ever Gold Business Partner."

Bisley chief executive Tony Brown said: "We are delighted to continue our association with The Duke of Edinburgh's Award in Wales. I feel the work of the award is vital to so many young people, and I shall be encouraging some of our employees' youngsters to put themselves forward for the scheme through their local schools. I am hoping that our commitment to becoming the first Gold Partner, Bisley might encourage other businesses in Wales to support with The Award in Wales.

The Award in Wales now has plans to create an Award Alumni of past participants, many of which may now be leaders of industry themselves