A husky and horse ride company will benefit from two new apprentices thanks to a Copeland Council programme.

Horse and Husky, a Bootle firm offering horse riding and husky-pulled carts, has taken on Charlie Crayston and Rob Mason, who will undertake level two qualifications in business administration and customer service.

The Copeland Work and Skills Partnership offers employer subsidies to businesses who take on apprentices.

Its aim is to encourage employers to support people aged 18 to 24 into employment.

Companies employing fewer than 50 staff qualify for a subsidy.

Copeland's deputy mayor and portfolio holder for economic growth, Lena Hogg, said: "This is yet another example of the Work and Skills Partnership making real and useful differences to the economy in our area.

"Not only does the employer get a subsidy to help make taking on an apprentice easier and more attractive, the job seeker gets a real step on the ladder - skills, experience, a wage and recognised qualifications at the end of it."

The work and skills programme, which started in June 2016 and is funded by Copeland Community Fund, targets its subsidies at businesses in Millom and Cleator Moor.

Apprentices at Horse and Husky will support the running of the business and its marketing as well as assisting with the outdoor activities.

The partners in the Copeland Work and Skills Partnership are: Copeland Borough Council, Citizens' Advice Bureau, Cumbria County Council, Cumbria Council for Voluntary Service, the Department for Work and Pensions, Gen2, Home Group, Home to Work/Works 4 You Ltd, Howgill Children’s and Family Centre, Impact Housing, Inspira, Lakes College, Millom Network Centre, Phoenix Enterprise Centre and West Cumbria Works.​

Employers who are interested in offering an apprenticeship opportunity should contact Chris Pickles on 01946 598326 or via email at Chris.Pickles@copeland.gov.uk