A BRIDGWATER concrete supplier is backing the construction industry's call for more Government investment in vehicle apprenticeships.

Staff at Hopkins Concrete, on Showground Road, are keen to encourage young people to apply for schemes after the success of their apprentice, Sam Hughes, who gained his Class One Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) licence.

Paul Wright, Hopkins’ fleet manager, said: "Sam set out to qualify as a lorry driver earlier this year and his achievement highlights the importance of supporting individuals through vocational schemes and the opportunity for more young people to embark on a career in the HGV industry."

The company helped Sam attain his HGV Class Two licence, which enabled him to enrol on an apprenticeship scheme with LGS Transport Training to work towards his Class One licence.

He can now drive on his own.

Sam, 23, said: "I have landed on my feet since joining Hopkins."

The programme is the equivalent to five good GCSE passes and usually takes a minimum of 12 months to complete.

With the practical part of the course complete, Sam is now focusing on the theory, which he should finish next autumn.

"The apprenticeship scheme is a great initiative, as it gives younger people, like Sam, the opportunity to get real hands-on work experience and attain a nationally recognised qualification, whilst earning," added Paul.

"We recognise the importance of having a first class workforce, to maintain the quality service that our customers rely on.

"We need to plan for the future and, as many of our drivers are close to retirement age, developing our apprenticeship scheme is crucial.

"A bit of fresh blood and enthusiasm goes a long way and as fleet manager I am particularly passionate to build a top-class, loyal team."

Nathan Hopkins, owner of Hopkins Concrete, said: "The team here at Hopkins Concrete is passionate about supporting local people and local causes.

"Sam is a Wincanton lad and it has been a real pleasure helping him kick-start his career.

"Qualified HGV drivers can be hard to come by, so the initial time investment is worth it.

"We now have another skilled driver who is a real asset to our team."