MORE apprenticeship fairs at Accrington Town Hall are planned by Hyndburn Council after more than 300 young people attended the latest event.

The next one could be during the school Easter holidays followed by another in the summer.

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Borough leader Miles Parkinson said: “We have had three very successful events.

“We consider these vital to the future of our young people and the economic success of the borough.

“We will be holding more later this year.

“The council will consult with local firms, schools and young people about when the best times to hold them are.”

Last week’s date followed two last year attended by a total of 400 young people looking at apprenticeships.

The 300 who came along to the town hall on Thursday provided the biggest attendance yet, Training providers and businesses present from across Hyndburn and beyond included Hyndburn Council, BAE Systems, Calico Housing, 247 Home Rescue, Accrington Stanley Community Trust, Age UK, Community Solutions North West, Hyndburn Homes, North Lancs Training Group, Accrington and Rossendale College, Training 2000 and Themis.

The events are aimed at anyone, of any age, thinking about an apprenticeship.

Attendees can find out more about apprenticeships direct from employers and training providers, seek expert advice and get one-to-one support in applying for apprenticeship vacancies. Last week’s event had live vacancies on offer, along with the chance to apply for apprenticeships and have an interview with potential employers on the day.

Coun Parkinson said: “An apprentice learns on the job, and is able to gain qualifications by learning new skills, whilst earning money at the same time. The Hyndburn Apprenticeship events are a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in becoming an apprentice.

"They are important for the young people as it gives them a real prospect of employment at the end of their education, which is an incentive to work hard and get their qualifications. It is also important for the borough which is keen for companies to come here.”