ONE of the UK's largest uPVC window fabricators has a clear future for 14 of its young recruits.

The apprentices at Nelson-based Sovereign Group all successfully achieved a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) level two in window fabrication after completing foundation modern apprenticeships.

training was provided by Preston-based training group TEST through ELTEC's work-based training programme.

Sovereign's production director, Dave Fitton, said: "Last year we decided to use TEST to train our window fabricators. As training has tended to be carried out in-house and on an informal basis, we thought it would be a positive move.

"I have to admit that I was a bit sceptical about it in the beginning as I was concerned about the amount of production time this would take up.

"The nature of the programme has been great for the lads as the majority of it has been carried out on the job, avoiding any production loss or build-up of work. The team are a lot more flexible now as they have an extended range of skills, which is increasing production levels and enabling the company to move forward." One of the successful fabricators, Andrew Lawson, 20, of Colne, said: "Working towards the NVQ helped me to understand more about the work I'm doing and has given me new skills, while I get on with my job."

Sovereign hopes to take on more modern apprentices in the coming years in support of the company's training plans.