The “inspirational” founder of a charity that helps to rehabilitate inmates at HMP High Down received a prestigious award at Buckingham Palace this month.

Alberto Crisci MBE from Epsom was awarded the City and Guilds of London Institute’s Prince Philip Medal by Princess Anne on Wednesday, June 8.

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He was celebrated at the Prince Philip Medal ceremony at which the guild recognises achievement in science, technology or industrial development.

The Prince Philip Medal is awarded to those who have made the most of their talents and seen significant success since completing their City & Guilds qualification. Mr Crisci earned City and Guilds qualifications in food preparation, cooking and food service.

Mr Crisci founded the Clink Charity in 2009, and opened the first Clink Restaurant at HMP High Down (pictured below).

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The charity now runs four restaurants across the country which are staffed by prisoners as part of their rehabilitation.

Mr Crisci said: “Working with and training offenders, ex-offenders and the homeless through City & Guilds training programmes means I see all their hard work come to fruition.

“Not only have our graduates gained their hospitality qualifications and put them to good use, but they have learned valuable life skills and confidence, enabling them to become stronger and offering a better future, for them as individuals and for their families, friends and society.

“I feel very proud to be recognised and awarded this prestigious award.”

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Mr Crisci became a chef at HMP High Down (pictured above) in 1994 after eight years of running his own wine bar and restaurant.

Since its inception seven years ago the Clink Charity has expanded and now recruits, trains, supports, employs and mentors prisoners and ex-offenders.

And prisoners working with the charity can now work towards a City & Guilds qualification in horticulture at one of the three Clink Gardens.

Chris Jones, Chief Executive at City and Guilds Group said: “Alberto has had an incredible career and is truly deserving of this award.

“You cannot help but be inspired by his story, and everything he has achieved, from starting out as a top chef, to setting up the Clink Restaurants and Gardens.

“His vision and commitment has helped support so many re-offenders, who often struggle to re-enter society, and give them a second chance. It is an honour to recognise his achievements with this award.”

For more information, visit http://theclinkcharity.org/