A bumper batch of trainees has been taken on by a housebuilder in Cumbria.

Persimmon Homes, which operates new build developments in Carlisle, Workington and Penrith, is currently supporting the career development of eight apprentices in the county.

Ian MacDonald, Persimmon Homes regional apprentice manager, said: “Our current batch of apprentices ranges from high achieving A level students, fresh school leavers, students joining us from full-time construction related courses and moving into apprenticeship placements, those who come from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, former members of the armed services and those looking for a complete career change.

“We are pleased to be working with a number of local colleges to support the training of these apprentices and look forward to seeing their progress out on site.”

The cohort includes trainee assistant site manager Ricky Mullen, who is part of a pilot scheme with the National House Building Council (NHBC). Based at Woodberry Heights in Penrith, Ricky is expected to be the first in the country to complete his End Point Assessment.

Also laying the foundations for a career with the company are bricklaying apprentices Sam Johnston, Lewis Smith, Scott Nixon, Mark Leesing, Alastair Smith and Daniel Waugh; and carpentry apprentice Daniel McTaggart.