Employers have backed an apprenticeship campaign by Cambridge Regional College to encourage businesses to provide more jobs for young people.

The 100 apprentices in 100 days campaign was launched by city MP Julian Huppert with a promise to take on the first apprentice.

And employers have already stepped forward to offer new apprenticeship opportunities for young people, across a range of industries.

Laraine Moody, CRC Assistant Principal for Employment and Skills, said the campaign – due to run until the end of June – had already encouraged more than 40 employers to step forward with openings for young people.

“The response has been hugely encouraging and we hope it will continue at this level until the end of the campaign,” she said.

Dr Huppert, who is looking for an apprentice to work in his constituency office, said: “The apprenticeship scheme is an excellent way for young people to learn valuable skills in a working environment.