Table centrepieces, ceramics and wooden gifts, jams and chutneys, handmade by prisoners at Hydebank Wood College have been sold for a total of £531.

The money was donated to Victim Support NI, a charity which supports people affected by crime - both victims and witnesses.

Ronnie Armour, director general of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, said: “As a prison service it’s our job to help make Northern Ireland safer by challenging and supporting the people in our care to change. Often we do this by supporting people to learn new skills, including art and crafts which can also provide an outlet for prisoners to explore their past, present and hopes for the future.”

He added: “But the Prison Service is also very aware of the impact crime has on those affected by it, both victims and witnesses of crime. By supporting people in custody to make Christmas crafts, which can then be sold to raise money for Victim Support NI, we’re allowing prisoners to understand the impact of their crimes and to give something back to the community.”

Some of the prisoners’ work continues to be available for sale at the Northern Ireland Prison Service’s craft shop at Hydebank, The Barn.

Geraldine Hanna, CEO of Victim Support NI, said: “Crime can have a devastating effect of people’s lives and the work of the Prison Service to inform and educate prisoners is invaluable.

“We are delighted to accept the money raised through The Barn Christmas crafts sale and will use the money to continue to provide emotional support and practical help to all victims, of all types of crime, across Northern Ireland.”