Fords South West Ltd has welcomed its first apprentice as it launches its new kitchen and bathroom fitting programme.

The Sidmouth business has worked closely with PGL Exeter to put the scheme together.

Dave Whelan, operations director for Fords South West Ltd, said: “We wanted to be able to offer an apprenticeship for kitchen and bathroom installation. It encompasses many of the usual trades - carpenter, plumber and tiler - but there wasn’t a traditional apprenticeship route into the trade.”

Ben Salter has become the first person to be offered the apprenticeship and said it was a ‘fantastic opportunity’. He added: “I don’t think other companies would have been quite so responsive. Everyone worked towards the final objective until what was required was achieved. I’ve got a fantastic opportunity - a first and I intend to make the most of it and not let anyone down.”