Cabbies managed a 'school run' of their own when they signed up for a pioneering course at Blackburn College.

And more than 50 drivers were presented with certificates at a Blackburn with Darwen Council Lifelong Learning and Skills Celebration

They have been taking part in 18-month courses to improve their skills ranging from ICT, self-defence, and customer care, to legal knowledge and health and safety.

Some courses even ran at midnight, and into the early hours, to fit in with taxi drivers' shifts. Now the course, the first of its kind in the country, will be copied nationwide.

The scheme has also scooped a top prize £5,000 after winning this year's New Learning Opportunitis Award.

The project was unanimously voted in by ten judges of the awards, who include UNISON, the Department of Education and Skills and the Open University.

Muhammad Khalid, a taxi driver for more than six years who had not studied since leaving school, said, "The training has really made a difference.

"It has opened up a new world of opportunities."

The presentation was organised by the council's Education and Lifelong Learning Department, on behalf of the Lifelong Learning Forum.

Coun Mahfooz Hussain, executive member for education, said, "This project is the first of its kind in the country and is now being replicated across parts of Europe, a testament that Blackburn with Darwen is a beacon for lifelong learning and guiding the way."

Andy Fawcett, director of strategy and planning at the Learning and Skills Council Lancashire, said, "It is great news that this pioneering project has been such a great success. I congratulate everyone on their achievements."