YOUNG apprentices are playing a key part in safeguarding one of the regions most precious areas.

The North York Moors National Park has revealed 15 per cent of their staff are now apprentices. The Park says it has pioneered working with them over the past few years, with 16 on the staff and supporting a further eight in the National Park. Chief Executive, Andy Wilson said: "They do great work for us, they learn a lot. We have helped young people to develop skills and confidence to find local jobs."

He said recent work had involved apprentices restoring 20hectares of habitats, improving 40 km of tourist routes and building or repairing 4.5 km of dry stone walls, hedges and fences. Other apprentices worked in tourism, hospitality and business administration.

In addition the park has worked with over 250 young volunteers as part of the National Citizen Service for 15 to 17 year olds.on adventure weeks, skills development and social action in the community. Next year they're hoping to double the number, with school parties also involved in helping.