AN ADULT apprenticeship programme is forging a bright future for people working in the North-East's marine and offshore industries.

Swan Hunter shipyard is piloting a fast-track apprenticeship programme for adults aged 25 to 40 who want to learn the latest shipbuilding, repair and fabrication skills in only two years.

The flagship Adult Modern Apprenticeship programme is proving so successful that the shipyard is about to launch its second pilot phase for trainee welders and platers from the Newcastle, North Tyneside and South Tyneside areas.

In the future, the programme will be expanded to include other trades and companies working in the marine and offshore sector along the Tyne.

The programme is financed by the European Social Fund through the Learning and Skills council, the Single Regeneration Budget and by Swan Hunter.