YOUNG offenders could be allowed out of a North Yorkshire prison for a walk around the local community, under plans by its new governor.

Norman Griffin, the governor of Northallerton Young Offenders' Institute, in East Road, wants to transform the institute into a resettlement facility.

The idea was welcomed by the town's mayor, who called it "refreshing," when Mr Griffin made the announcement at the town council's meeting on Monday.

Mr Griffin said he wanted to turn it into a centre that helped offenders integrate back into the community, and asked the council to support this and help him raise the profile of the prison.

"The majority of offenders serve less than six months," he said.

"We have no licensed prisoners and no sex offenders and we would like to, with risk assessment, integrate offenders into the community - I want to give each kid a second chance."

Under the scheme, a prisoner, on receiving a visit from his family, would be able to leave the facility, within a ten-mile radius, during the visit.

The families of offenders have had the terms and conditions of being involved in a temporary release programme explained to them, and offenders will receive a book telling them what they can and cannot do. The scheme has been piloted since August with no problems.

Mr Griffin also wants to work with local employers so the youths could learn skills and gain experience for when they are released.

Northallerton Mayor David Blades said: "It is one of the biggest employers in the area, with a £7m budget and about 200 staff.

"It is pioneering for this area and is going to involve local employers. As mayor of the town, I would like to think we can all help with this vision that Mr Griffin has.

"It's refreshing for us as a town council to get a new governor with ideas. I feel as though we have been dormant for many years and not had any input, and now it is an opportunity to work together as a partnership.

"We all drive past it most days but we don't stop and think what is going on there -- maybe this is an opportunity for the people of Northallerton to get involved."