Farron praises businesses following apprenticeships boost

Figures released yesterday show the annual increase in apprenticeships in Westmorland and Lonsdale was more than five times higher than the Cumbrian average and more than double the national average. Local MP Tim Farron has praised local businesses for their continued efforts.

Government figures show that in the year 2015/16, 840 apprenticeships were started in the constituency - a 5% increase on the previous year. This is significantly higher than the increase of under 1% across Cumbria as a whole, and of 2% nationally.

Tim said: "This continued increase in the number of apprenticeships in our area is fantastic news for our young people and for the local economy. Apprenticeships are a great way to both learn and earn, whilst gaining valuable experience.

"My thanks go to all those local businesses that provide these opportunities to young people. The District and County Councils also deserve credit. The District Council works hard to support local businesses, which in turn able to provide opportunities to young people and boost the local economy. The County Council has also invested tens of thousands of pounds to promote apprenticeships."