A YOUNGSTER from Okehampton is one of up to 20 new apprentices being taken on by South West Water as it has expanded its successful work and training scheme.

Chris Humphreys, aged 18, joined South West Water in September after completing engineering and maths qualifications at Exeter College and is now working in water distribution in north Devon.

He said: 'I am really enjoying gaining hands on experience with South West Water. I am involved with a lot of customer-facing work as well as learning about planned rehabilitation work.

'I would definitely recommend joining an apprenticeship scheme like this one. Not everyone goes to university and with an apprenticeship you are being paid to learn while gaining a lot of social and life skills.'

Last year, more than 400 young people applied for 16 apprenticeships in its Drinking Water and Operations Support functions.

South West Water's organisation and employee development manager Nigel Fenn said: 'After the success of last year's scheme, we are delighted to open it up to even more young people in the region struggling to get on to a real career ladder.

'Our staff ensure we're giving customers an excellent service and we are looking for exceptional candidates to help us deliver high standards.

'Successful candidates will receive all their professional training paid for while working for us and there will be outstanding opportunities to progress.

'We are committed to promoting equal opportunities in the workplace and are also very keen to encourage more applications from young women looking to enter the industry.'