West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin caught up with the latest in cutting-edge automotive technology during a visit to a Malvern business to meet a group of apprentices. The MP was visiting Sierra CP, based on the Enigma Business Park in Malvern as part of National Apprenticeship Week events. The company designs and builds engine testing machines for major car brands and even Formula 1 teams. And Harriett chatted to the apprentices as well as being taken on a tour of the factory. The company’s test rigs are built to order and are capable of replicating climatic conditions in other countries to assess an engine’s performance. Harriett commented: “I’ve always been a huge fan of apprenticeship programmes, which give young people the chance to earn while they learn. It’s beneficial for local employers who are able to spot and develop talent quickly and also good for the employee who can start earning and developing a career at double-quick time. “I was really impressed by the enthusiasm displayed by all three young men – Sierra CP is clearly a cutting-edge company leading the way in the automotive sector and particularly in motorsport. “Apprenticeship programmes are a great way of giving local people a great start in the world of work and I encourage as many businesses as possible to look at taking on an apprentice and developing the stars of the future.” Peter Martin, of Sierra CP added: “Sierra CP was very pleased to welcome Harriett Baldwin MP to visit our facility. The three apprentices, who are just completing their NVQ element, are the company’s first experience of engaging apprentices and that experience has been a very positive one.” Photo: Harriett Baldwin MP tours the Sierra CP factory floor with (l-r) Joe Lowndes, Matt Green and Jack Hawthorn.