CROWN Paints has backed a new scheme to help young people into a trade.

The Darwen-based firm is supporting national event WorldSkills with the hope of finding the UK’s best young painter and decorator.

Heats are to be held across the country before the finals – known as the Skills Olympics – take place in London in October.

Already, two students from Accrington and Rossendale College, Thomas Regan and Rachel Cook, have won in heats in Salford and Blackpool.

Crown chief Brian Davidson said: “We’re committed to investing in people and skills and believe this is fundamental for the good of the business and the wellbeing of the economy.

“We’ve been demonstrating this in a hands-on, practical way for more than 30 years by working with colleges and training organisations.”

Crown employs 500 at its headquarters in Hollins Road, Darwen.