A COUNCIL has signed up to the National Skills Pledge.

The Government scheme commits organisations to investing in training and development of its workforce and opens up access to additional training funds.

The pledge means Blackburn with Darwen Council will offer every one of its employees the opportunity to gain qualifications equivalent to five good GCSEs.

Chief executive Graham Burgess and council leader, Colin Rigby, signed the pledge on behalf of the council.

Coun Rigby said: "Blackburn with Darwen believes in investing in its employees.

"By ensuring that we have a well trained staff, the council will also be able to provide better services to the public."