A YOUNG apprentice is hoping to clean up in the jobs market after swapping glamour for a life of grime.

Former beautician trainee Christine Naylor has traded facial cleansing for street cleaning as part of an Urban Blitz youth project designed to get young people into the workplace and help clean up the environment.

The 14 week project is run by Darlington based Nordic Pioneer and funded by Darlington College.

The initiative enables 16 to 24 year olds to train for an NVQ qualification in cleaning and support services as well as learn key skills in numeracy, communications, conflict management, health and safety, leadership, sharps handling and graffiti removal.

Nordic Pioneer project Manager Michael Gardner said: "Since the scheme began in September 2010 we have helped over 48 young people in Darlington gain their NVQ qualification and from our first 20 recruits six have already found full time employment.

"The course is run over four days a week and many of the apprentices love it so much they volunteer to give up their own time and come in for the fifth day."

Christina, 18, of Darlington said: "I never thought about the amount of litter that people dropped or graffiti before but this course has really made me see things differently.

"The apprenticeship programme has really worked for me I get to work outdoors, help the environment and gain a qualification which will help me find a job.

"Cleaning up may not be very glamorous but it is very rewarding."

To find out how apprenticeships can benefit your business call Darlington College Business First on 01325-503108.