An apprentice scheme at East Kent Railway Trust will now help youngsters into railway careers for years to come after a permanent agreement has been signed.

The Shepherdswell charity’s pilot scheme, in partnership with railway training organisation ARC Academy UK, has trained 35 trainees - a success that will make the project a permanent addition to the mining railway heritage site.

Gary Cox, apprenticeship liaison officer at EKRT, said: “This scheme is important for everyone involved but most importantly for the trainees themselves."

Some of the apprentices on the 10-12 week scheme have been involved in drink and drugs, problems they have put behind them thanks to finding a new purpose.

It could lead to careers in the railway industry and links with recruitment firms McGinleys and SWGR could lead to jobs quickly.

For the full story, pictures and details on how to enroll or volunteer, see this week's Mercury, out on Thursday.