A Cobham nursery has hired its first apprentice as part of a Surrey County Council initiative.

County Councillor Mary Lewis, who represents Cobham, visited Downside Nursery School last week to meet their apprentice and hear how she is enjoying the scheme.

Krystyna Griffiths, owner of the nursery, recruited Nifi Nima, 19, from Bookham, after reading an article in Councillor Lewis’s newsletter about the county council’s drive to open more apprentice schemes.

Miss Nima said she is "thoroughly enjoying" working with the children and particularly loves the youngsters creativity.

Mrs Griffiths said: "Surrey County Council’s support for apprenticeships makes it possible for small, local businesses to take on and train enthusiastic young people for all kinds of important roles and I am delighted to be part of that scheme."