MALVERN’S MP Harriett Baldwin has given her backing to a national scheme to increase the number of apprenticeship opportunities.

She was speaking after meeting apprentices at Malvern defence company Dytecna, which employs a small group each year to work at its factory.

The National Apprenticeship Service will next month launch a county-wide campaign to encourage companies to take on apprentices.

“There are many strong engineering and manufacturing companies in the county who could benefit from taking on an apprentice,” said Mrs Baldwin. “It is a very effective way of creating jobs and investing in the local community and most apprentices turn into excellent employees.

“At a time when youth unemployment is a problem, this apprenticeship programme is a very effective way to create jobs and give local people an opportunity to start a worthwhile and rewarding career.”

Employers looking for more information can find out more at www.apprenticeships.org.uk.