A girl accused of robbing schoolboys at knifepoint is being sent on a three-month horse riding course, courtesy of the Youth Offending Team. Critics have blasted the move as 'ridiculous' and say it sends out the wrong message.
They say well-behaved young people would have jumped at the opportunity.
The 17-year-old will attend the residential course at the Northern Racing College in Doncaster, south Yorkshire.
If she does well she could be found employment in racing stables, continue her apprenticeship or even become a jockey.
She will learn yard duties, looking after racehorses, riding out, attending lectures and studying for qualifications. All meals and accommodation are provided.
The foundation course is open to beginners with no previous experience, but demands a 'strong desire to work with thoroughbred racehorses'.
The girl, who can't be named for legal reasons, appeared at Blackburn Magistrates' Court, Lancashire, on Tuesday.
She was brought from custody after breaching her bail conditions for a third time. But magistrates agreed to amend her bail conditions so she could go to Doncaster. Read More
