The next phase of the county's finance apprenticeships programme is due to begin.

The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (Cipfa) runs the programme which offers training in financial management to apprentices in public service roles.

It aims to make a difference to the employment opportunities of young people in the region.

Chief executive of Cipfa Rob Whiteman said: "Government figures show that there is an increasing appetite for apprenticeship schemes with 440,000 starting in England in the 2013-14 academic year. And with tuition fees topping £9,000 a year, it's no surprise that young people are looking to explore different avenues into the world of work."

For more information visit cipfa.org/recruitment/finance-apprenticeship-scheme.