Renishaw is recruiting a record number of graduates and trainees as part of a major investment in the future development of the business.

The precision engineering company, based near Wotton-under-Edge, has opened applications for 70 graduate positions as well as 51 apprenticeships.

And the investment, which covers roles in engineering, manufacturing, embedded electronic design and development, software and IT, includes more than 60 placement opportunities across its Gloucestershire and South Wales sites.

Apprentice lead Julia Russell said: "Apprentices and graduates future proof the workforce, which is why we have invested so heavily in our early careers programmes since 1979.

"At Renishaw, apprentices are heavily involved in projects from the outset and they always bring innovative and fresh ideas to the team, helping our company to adapt in a rapidly changing industry.

"As they move around different departments, apprentices also have the opportunity to network, which can be a real plus during their long-term career."

As well as gaining on-the-job experience and nationally recognised qualifications, apprentices and graduates at Renishaw receive tailored programmes and training.

Graduate lead Becca Horns said: "Graduates have the opportunity to work across different departments in the company to develop transferable skills and find their passion."

"Our graduates, apprentices and placement students go on to have careers in a wide range of engineering and commercial functions, including senior and managerial roles.

"Gareth Hankins, director of the group manufacturing services division, joined the company as an apprentice."

Apprenticeship applications, including those for degree apprenticeships, close on February 12 with graduate and placement applications open until a week later at renishaw.com/en/careers.

The virtual selection process will include interviews, group work and early careers talks from Renishaw employees with applicants chosen for their stand-out CVs and covering letters as much as their academic ability, to ensure they are the best fit for the positions.