Electricity North West has celebrated its highest intake of apprentices since launching a dedicated programme in 2017 and is now looking for its next intake.

A total of 40 trainees from across the region have now embarked on a three-year journey with the power operator which will see them train to become specialists.

The new recruits have already carried out two weeks of learning at Electricity North West’s state-of-the-art training academy.

Now, they will join one of the organisation's many depots throughout the region gaining on-site experience.

This year’s apprentices were chosen out of hundreds of applications with the new roles including operational engineers, design engineers, civil engineers, mechanics, cyber specialists and IT engineers.

Rachael Parr, Electricity North West’s people director, said: “Providing the critical infrastructure and the people that the region needs underpins long-term green growth.

“In what is a record intake, I’m delighted to welcome everybody on board.

"The number of apprentices joining reaffirms our commitment to creating green jobs and investing in the future.

“Our major £2 billion investment programme for the North West’s power network is well underway and our apprentices will have a major role to play in ensuring we’re able to complete the huge programme of work.”

Since launching in 2017, more than 250 apprentices have been trained by Electricity North West.

Later this year, Electricity North West will re-open its window for hiring and anyone interested is encouraged to register online for early updates.

Chris Havard, Electricity North West’s apprenticeship programme manager, added: “Our apprenticeship programme is thriving.

“In the last seven years, all apprentices that have qualified have been offered a full-time role and accepted."