A scheme celebrating its fifth anniversary has provided £125,000 in grants to support apprenticeships in Eden.

This programme, launched by Eden District Council, has 57 employers and 62 apprentices.

Last year Appleby Heritage Centre took over the administration of the scheme for an initial period of one yea and has supported a further 12 employers and 16 apprentices with eight more in the pipeline.

The grants, of up to £2,000, are provided by Invest in Eden in with Appleby Heritage Centre and the scheme has been extended until March 2018.

Paul Walker, the council's business marketing officer, said: “Our aim is to grow the economy in Eden.

"To do this, businesses need access to a skilled workforce. The scheme will support our communities by providing opportunities for young people to gain employment and skills for their future."

For full details, visit www.investineden.co.uk.