South Craven MP Julian Smith has spoken of the importance of apprenticeships to businesses and young people.

He met three horticultural apprentices and their tutor during a visit to Craven College.

Mr Smith says that since 2010 there has been rise of more than 60 per cent in the number of apprenticeships in his Skipton and Ripon constituency, from 510 to 840.

He added: “Apprenticeships are good for business and good for young people, by offering an insight into the world of work backed up by learning at college.”