FOR most youngsters, work experience means getting a job with a local employer for a fortnight.

But one teenager from France has gone just that bit further - 500 miles further - to take up a job with the council in Todmorden.

Clement Defaux travelled across Europe on his own from his home town of Roncq to find out what it's like to work at a variety of businesses and organis-ations in the UK, and at the same time improve his English.

Clement has been working with Calderdale Council's community safety team, The Square Chapel and at Harvey's Department Store in Halifax.

This week, he's getting plenty of opportunities to practise his English, working in the council's visitor centres at Todmorden, Hebden Bridge and Halifax.

But Clement is no stranger to the area. Thanks to his family's involvement with the Todmorden Town Twinning Association, Clement and his family have been visiting the area since he was eight years old.

Through the association, they have a long-term friendship with Todmorden residents Paul and Maggie Whewell who he is staying with during his visit.

Calderdale Council's twinning officer, Liz Mawer, says Clement's visit is the culmination of hard work by different organisations.

She said: "Todmorden Town Twinning Association, Halifax town centre management, Harvey's and Square Chapel have all pulled together to provide Clement with a marvellous opportunity."