A ceiling installation firm has taken on apprentices for the first time in 15 years as it aims to fill a skills shortage.

Great Yarmouth Ceilings has taken on six youngsters on two-year schemes on the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) course in interior systems.

Head of HR Glynis Adams said: 'There's a skills shortage in the construction industry. We were keen to do our bit to encourage more young people to move into this sector. It felt like a natural step for us.'

The apprentices started their new roles with four weeks at the CITB National Construction College in Bircham Newton. From there, a large proportion of their training will be on-the-job and the aim is for all six to become full-time employees once the two years end.

Apprentice Olly Gook said: 'I was keen to get into a skilled, hands-on job in the construction industry, but I also wanted to make sure I received the best training along the way and a qualification for the future.'