Unemployed people in West Norfolk and Fenland are being offered free training to help them find jobs in low carbon construction.

The initiative to boost the new and emerging part of the building industry comes from the SmartLIFE Low Carbon Skills for Work programme.

A range of courses in the skills needed for low carbon construction are on offer, including solar heating and electricity, rainwater harvesting, roof and wall insulation, triple glazing and high-efficiency boilers.

The courses are said to be particularly relevant for people with some experience as bricklayers, carpenters, plumbers, electricians and gas-fitters.

However some are also designed for those with no such qualifications who would simply like to start a new career.

The courses are being offered at the College of West Anglia and Cambridge Regional College and are free to people who are aged over 18 and currently unemployed or claiming disability allowance.

The programme is being support by Fenland District Council, West Norfolk Council and Cambridgeshire County Council. It is being funded by the European Social Fund and the East of England Development Agency.

David Arkell, director at SmartLIFE, said: 'This is another example of a partnership coming together to provide valuable training for those who most need it.'

A free recruitment service is also being made available to businesses in low carbon construction which are seeking to recruit trained workers.

Employeers can fet more information about the service by visiting the Boathouse in Wisbech on May 5 between 4pm and 6pm.

For more information on the training courses call Adrian Key on 07733 102427 or Christine Chapman on 07771 778124.