A GROUP of apprentices will be flying the flag for the North-East when they travel to Europe to test their engineering skills as part of a link with German students.

Twelve apprentices from South West Durham Training, in Newton Aycliffe, will visit the Siemens training centre in Germany's Ruhr Valley, where they will be given an insight into European industry and culture.

During their three week stay in the town of Mulheim, which is twinned with Darlington, the students will work with German and Israeli counterparts on an engineering project to redesign and manufacture a Savonius wind turbine.

Bob Waller, chief executive at S W Durham Training, said: "This trip will give our apprentices an opportunity to sharpen their business acumen and forge strong links with their European counterparts."

The group will also have an opportunity to gain an insight into the way European businesses work with several visits to industrial plants including a major chemical factory.

Group member Andrew Smith, 18, said: "This is a chance to sample a different culture and way of life.

"I've been abroad before but only on holiday and never to work. We're already excited about the prospect of going and looking forward to making new friends and comparing Germany to life in the North-East."

S W Durham Training is offering apprenticeships in advanced engineering, customer service, administration management, polymers, IT and material handling.

For further information, call (01325) 313194.