A COUNCIL has welcomed 21 new apprentices on their first day at work.

Durham County Council’s regeneration and economic development department has taken on the trainees for two years.

During that time, the apprentices will work across different teams to gain as much experience as possible, while working towards NVQs in Business Administration.

Councillor Neil Foster, the council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: “This scheme is a great way to help improve the long term prospects of the apprentices who have joined us.

“With high levels of youth unemployment in the region it’s great that the council can lead the way in offering opportunities to young and unemployed people across the county.

“We would encourage all organisations in the region to think about offering their own apprenticeships to improve the prospects of people in the area.”

More Durham County Council News