UP to 20 more apprenticeships are being offered to Devon youngsters as South West Water expands its successful work and training scheme.

With youth unemployment still rising in the region, the water and sewerage provider is expecting a flood of applications for the 20 new positions next month.

Last year, more than 400 young people applied for 16 apprenticeships in its drinking water and operations support functions.

Nigel Fenn, South West Water's organisation and employee development manager, said: "After the success of last year's scheme, we are delighted to open it up to even more young people in the region struggling to get on to a real career ladder.

"Successful candidates will receive all their professional training paid for while working for us and there will be outstanding opportunities to progress."

Applications for the new positions are being accepted through th eNational Apprenticeship Service website at www.apprenticeships.org.uk/Be-An-Apprentice and enter 'South West Water'.