BURY youngsters could soon be building themselves a new career.

For up to £25,000 worth of specialised training is now on offer to Greater Manchester school leaves aged 16-21 who wish to follow a career in the construction industry.

The Government-backed Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has nearly 500 places available on some of the world's best construction industry courses at its campus-based colleges in Norfolk, Birmingham and Erith.

Courses, which are up to two years in duration, include general construction, scaffolding and access, surveying and setting out, utilities, plant operation and maintenance and steeplejacking plus many more other specific courses.

Ian Woodward, trainee services manager at the National Construction College, said: "The courses provide high quality vocational training and valuable hands-on experience for careers in the construction industry.

"As a consequence of this, there is a real interest in our trainees from employers. Many go straight into careers with good pay and, in some cases, travel extensively to worldwide locations where their employers are active."

Further details about the range of courses on offer from the CITB are available by ringing Maria Compton on 01485 577669.

Alternatively, write for a prospectus to the national recruitment co-ordinator at the National Construction College, Bircham Newton, King's Lynn, Norfolk.