Fylde firms urged to inspire young

Dr Lis Smith, principal at Preston’s College, said that providing opportunities for youngsters would generate new jobs and boost the economy of the North.

A report by The Northern Powerhouse Partnership called on more employers to offer work experience which it said would give at least 900,000 young people experience of the world of work.

Preston’s College is sponsoring the Employer of the Year category at the Be Inspired Business Awards, which will have its awards night at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

Dr Smith said: “Education and skills are at the heart of making the Northern Powerhouse a success and will only succeed if all parties work together.

"Providing good quality work experience will also then help all businesses when they do take on young people, whether in the growing area of apprenticeships, straight into jobs, or as graduates, as those young people will have a much better grasp of what it really means to be in work when they do start.”