BROWNIES and Guides got to grips with the art of welding at a special workshop.

The girls from Slaithwaite are among 500 youngsters who have been joining courses at Huddersfield Technical College to get their badges.

Hollie Warman is pictured (above) being given instruction from Steve Fielding, while instructor Ainsley Fairhurst (right) shows the Guides a cutting machine.

Other subjects include confectionery, first aid, cooking and mechanics.

Funding for the lessons has been given by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward.

Donna Milligan, the college's project co-ordinator, said: "Hundreds of local children have been provided with opportunities they would not normally be able to access.

"They've picked up a range of new skills and had a lot of fun at the same time."