A PLASTICS business has appointed new engineering apprentices as it seeks to strengthen its future operations.

The Omega Group has welcomed 18-year-olds Luke McMorris and Justin Fairburn, and Dan Gray, 19, who will bolster its tool making team.

The trio are joined by Adam Cook, 20, and 18-year-old Jordan Dale, who will embark on production apprenticeships at Omega’s site in Washington, Wearside.

Bosses say Mr McMorris, Mr Fairburn and Mr Gray will continue studying at Hartlepool and Northumberland Colleges respectively, during their three-year apprenticeships, which will equip them with skills needed to become precision toolmakers.

Mr Cook and Mr Dale, who have already studied at college, will complete their apprenticeships before pursuing careers in manufacturing as part of Signal Plastics, which is now part of the Omega Group.

The company, formed through a partnership between Hartlepool and Blyth-based Omega and Washington’s Signal Plastics, is known for its commitment to apprenticeships.

Dave Crone, Omega Group managing director, said: “Luke, Dan, Justin, Jordan and Adam will gain important skills while they are with us as well as bringing new ideas, creativity and youthful enthusiasm to the workforce.

“Apprenticeships aren’t just for the larger companies.

“They are a cost-effective way for smaller, highly-specialised firms like us to train the workforce to a high standard and make the business more competitive.”