ONE of the largest regeneration and housing companies in the region, has offered four young people the opportunity to learn new skills, experience the world of work and gain important qualifications. 

John Bailey, John McGowan, Warren Spurr and Ryan Iley, all aged between 16 and 18 years, have been offered roles as horticultural apprentices at Coast & Country Housing. 

Another two apprentices will be appointed in the near future.

The positions offered will take up to three years to complete and the quartet will work alongside Coast & Country’s experienced teams of gardeners, landscapers and open space operatives to gain a variety of essential horticultural skills, working towards a NVQ Level 2 diploma in Horticulture.

The apprentices will be trained how to operate a host of garden and landscaping machinery, how to identify plants, trees and shrubs, pruning techniques and recognising and eradicating pests and diseases.

Iain Sim, the housing firm's chief executive, said:  “These are fantastic opportunities offering the young people the chance to work with professional, experienced and skilled people who deliver excellent services to our customers on a day to day basis.

"They will have the opportunity to learn valuable professional skills and to gain a recognised national qualification.  Experiencing the ‘world of work’ and becoming involved in wider corporate initiatives aimed at developing Coast & Country and its services further will stand them in good stead for their future careers."