A Gloucestershire transport company was impressed by the candidates who attended its annual apprentice open day.

CM Downton is aiming to recruit up to 20 driver apprentices as well as another 15 workshop and office-based apprentices this year to add to its UK-wide workforce of over 1,350 people.

It held an open day at its Moreton Valence head office where potential apprentices received a tour of Downton's site and were able to meet representatives of the Freight Transport Association, Gloucester-based DAF trucks dealership Imperial Commercials, and LGS Transport Training.

The event was also attended by directors and senior managers from Downton, including the recruitment team, providing the youngsters with an opportunity to make good first impressions and talk with key members of the business.

Many of the young people present at the open day will now be invited to a formal assessment before the company selects the successful candidates.

CM Downton managing director Andy Downton said: "We believe in developing young talent and we were very impressed with the number of very good candidates that attended on Saturday.

We are not looking for the finished article at this stage, but we do want people with the right attitude who are willing to put their heart and soul into their work and take full advantage of the fantastic opportunities our apprenticeship schemes offer."

Downton's apprenticeship scheme has a long-term retention rate of over 95 per cent and is an established component of the company's business development and commitment to recruiting youngsters from the local community.

Driver apprentices undergo an intensive year-long training course and in most cases are driving within three months.

The objective is to provide apprentices with all the qualifications they need to build a successful career within the business.

Downton's apprenticeships are open to applicants who are aged 18 or over and hold a full category B car licence with zero penalty points.

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