Metro firm Nexus creates engineering apprenticeships

Transport group Nexus has announced it is recruiting 30 new apprentices to "revitalise" its "ageing workforce".

The company, which manages the Tyne and Wear Metro, is creating the engineering posts to replace its current workers who are close to retirement.

It says the apprenticeships will be "important" to the future of the Metro's £385m modernisation project.

The three-year programme, working with Gateshead College, will recruit 10 new apprentices each year.

Nexus said it would be keeping all the apprentices on permanently as "almost half" of its engineering staff are due to reach retirement age in a few years.

Bernard Garner, Nexus director general, said: "We are investing £385m to modernise Metro but it is just as important we maintain and reinvigorate our workforce with new talent.

"We are acting now to guarantee cherished engineering skills and expertise are not lost as people retire."