PEOPLE seeking apprenticeships at an East Lancashire town hall have been reminded they only have until the end of the month to submit their applications.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has over 20 roles available for new trainees to start work with the authority this September.

Applications close on May 31 and shortlisted candidates will be contacted during June.

Apprenticeships offer on-the-job training whilst gaining a recognised qualification – ranging from Level 2 right up to degrees.

Council apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. There’s no upper age limit and they are not just suitable for young people.

Where possible, the council retains staff at the end of their apprenticeships, with many progressing into more senior roles.

Denise Park, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Chief Executive, said: "With more than 200 different kinds of roles across the authority, we’re the most diverse employer in the borough.

"I'm really proud of the opportunities our apprenticeships offer to local people.

I would encourage anyone who is interested in a council apprenticeship to apply as soon as possible. Some trades apprentice roles proved to be so popular we had to close them early, due to the volumes of applications already received.

"So my message is: don’t leave it too late to apply for our apprenticeships – the closing date is Tuesday May 31."