A Northallerton store has won an award for its efforts and commitment to equal employment rights for disabled people.

Boyes in Northallerton received the award from RecruitAble, a pilot scheme for the government's New Deal for Disabled People, which acts as an employment consultancy for disabled employees.

Mr Peter O'Mahoney, manager at the store, said: "We have a history of employing people with learning disabilities, and we have also taken on someone part-time, who has a disability which prevented him from working."

The store took on Mr Nigel Walker, who had long term health problems. He has worked at the store part-time for more than six months, and is now working full-time.

"Nigel has worked for us previously and we knew he was a good worker; we knew he wanted work," said Mr O'Mahoney. "If this disability did not prevent him fulfilling the job description I gave him, I knew I was getting a first class employee.

"It's nice to see someone back at work and enjoying it," he added.

On employing disabled people and those with learning difficulties, Mr O'Mahoney said: "I've never been shy of giving them a chance and it seems to work. Until you give them a go, you won't know. I get great pleasure from helping people in to work."

Mr Andrew Boyes, chairman of Boyes, said: "We are a people-orientated business and we know from experience that the disabled can offer a lot to the workplace and society.

"We are happy to back this scheme and it is something we will continue to do. We are delighted by Peter's efforts, and the team at Northallerton, in winning this award."

In our picture. Mr Hugh Bayley, left, MP for York, presents the award to Mr Andrew Boyes, chairman of Boyes' stores, and Mr Mahoney, centre