Virtual reality is the latest tool being used to overcome a serious shortage of skilled welders in UK industry.

Guests at the recent launch of Gloucestershire's new SGS Berkeley Green University Technical College were invited to try their hand at the skill without a real spark flying.

They held and directed an electronic welding torch while their efforts were displayed on a virtual reality screen.

Cliff Allen of the Weldability Sif Foundation which supports the welding industry explained: " We are working with colleges to put welding back on the curriculum or help them improve their facilities.

"What we have here is a virtual reality welding system showing MIG welding. It allows students to get a flavour of welding. Once they reach the right level of welding the lecturer can introduce them to the welding bay so they can do it for real."

There are 86,000 people working in the welding, brazing and soldering trade in the UK but it is estimated that a further 30,000 are needed. The rewards can be good with a travelling industrial pipe welder earning up to £100,000.

The SGS Berkeley Green University Technical College opens to student in September 2017 and will meet the UK's skills shortage with some of the best training facilities in the country for the science, technology, engineering and manufacturing industries.