THE head of a major North-East engineering plant warned young people to be careful not to rule themselves out of careers by posting inappropriate material on social media.

Cummins Engines plant manager Des McMenamin was speaking to pupils from Darlington School of Mathematics and Science (DSMS) at an event designed to give them advice on preparing for interviews and the world of work.

The careers session for Year 10 pupils was run by Darlington Cares, an initiative where firms in the borough encourage their staff to carry out projects which benefit the local community.

Mr McMenamin, responsible for 763 workers at the Darlington engine plant, was joined at the session by Darlington Cares programme manager Katie Blundell.

Preparing young people for work through first hand industry advice is also a key aim of Foundation for Jobs the a joint initiative to combat youth unemployment involving The Northern Echo, Darlington Borough Council and The Darlington Partnership of public and private sector organisations, including Cummins.

Mr McMenamin, whose plant produces engines for London’s famous Routemaster red buses amongst other major contracts, warned the students that posting inappropriate material on the likes of Facebook and Twitter because could lose them a potential job.

“You could end up being judged by the funny stuff and this could put off a prospective employer.

"You need to think about your profile picture and use the privacy settings,” he said.

Students were also offered advice on CV preparation, interview techniques and other employment skills.

“Simple things like time-keeping are vital,” said Mr McMenamin.

“If someone isn’t in my plant the impact is massive.

"It could stop production and could delay the delivery of the engines we make for ambulances and fire engines.

“If you can’t get to work on time then you put yourself in danger of losing your job and your salary and all the things that is used for.”

DSMS head teacher Calvin Kipling said: “Hearing this sound advice from the employer’s mouth has a huge impact on students’ attitudes.

“It really hits home what will be expected of them when they leave school and enter the exciting and rewarding world of work.

“We are so fortunate to have such a dynamic employer as Cummins in the town, a truly global and very successful business which make engines for machines around the world.

"It is fantastic that they are so keen to work in the community and they certainly inspired our students today.”

DSMS takes part in a number of initiatives designed to give young people an insight into their future lives.

These include projects run by Foundation for Jobs, Future First, a charity that links pupils with former students who have gone on to have successful careers, as well as organising a comprehensive work experience programme.