Hinkley Point C construction creates 3,000 new jobs

About 15,000 people are expected to work on the construction of Hinkley Point C when it reaches its peak

Thousands of new jobs will be created in Somerset as work on the UK's newest power station is ramped up.

Construction of nuclear power station Hinkley Point C is due to reach its peak in the next 18 months, with about 15,000 people expected to work on the build.

EDF, the energy firm behind the project, has said this includes 3,000 new jobs in Somerset.

Many of the new roles will support the fit-out of the power station, which will see miles of pipes and cables installed.

Hinkley Point C, in Bridgwater, is scheduled to open in 2031 - five years later than originally planned.

The estimated cost of the project has risen to £46bn from the £18bn predicted in 2017.

Apprentice Megan Ellicott says she is "proud" to help build Hinkley Point C

Megan Ellicott, from Bridgwater, is one of the 1,500 apprentices who have so far been trained to work on the construction of the plant.

"Ever since leaving school, I knew this was the line of work that I wanted to be in," the 22-year-old said.

"Being able to follow in the footsteps of my family who have worked on both the Hinkley A and B sites is a proud moment for me and I'll be able to tell people that I helped build Hinkley Point C."

More than 8,000 people have been trained in welding, electrical and mechanical skills, according to EDF.

Hinkley Point C's managing director Stuart Crooks said he was "determined" to provide as many opportunities as possible to help people in Somerset and the wider South West.

"As a former apprentice, I know the impact that training can have in transforming lives for the better," he added.