West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin met with local hospitality workers as part of an event to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week.

The MP joined colleagues from up and down the country, in Westminster, marking the important work carried out by hospitality apprentices as they earn while they learn.

Harriett chatted to Jessica Smith, who went to school at The Chantry in Martley, then started out as an apprentice at The Fox Inn in Bransford and who now runs a Greene King pub in Bewdley earning up to £40,000 a year.

Harriett marks the work of apprentices each February by meeting with people working across a variety of sectors in West Worcestershire ranging from hospitality to engineering.

National Apprenticeship Week takes place between 3 to 9 February 2020. The annual celebration of apprenticeships brings the whole apprenticeship community together to celebrate the impact of apprenticeships on individuals, employers and the economy.

Harriett said: “National Apprenticeship Week is an important initiative, celebrating the work of people already embarking on an apprenticeship, and encouraging more young people to consider this career option.

“Over the years, I have met dozens of apprentices as part of this initiative and I’ve seen some go on to start their own businesses and become successful in their own right.

“An apprenticeship can be exactly the right option for some people who want to get on the career ladder quickly without affecting their chances of learning.

“The hospitality sector is an especially good place to get earning while training and it was a pleasure to chat to Jessica who is clearly outstanding and has taken great strides forward towards a successful and fulfilling career.”

Photo: Harriett Baldwin MP with Jessica Smith.