Local MP Robert Largan recently presented Heritage Skills certificates to four apprentices from Breedon Cement Works in Hope at his High Peak Jobs & Apprenticeships Fair. 

Four apprentices from the Hope Valley plant—Jake Saxon, Alex Dunsby, Harrison Winters and Daniel Hobson—spent two days helping to restore an 1888 steam locomotive on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway in Yorkshire.

The apprentices worked on the London & North Western Railway Webb Coal Tank, a 19th century engine used to pull vintage trains, whilst being overseen by experienced heritage engineers. 

Robert was pleased to be able to present the apprentices with their certificates upon completion of the Apprentice Heritage Skills Experience programme.

Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:

“One of the many highlights of my High Peak Jobs & Apprenticeships Fair last week was being able to present certificates to apprentices from Breedon Hope Cement Works. 

“These apprentices haven’t just been working at the quarry, but have also experienced working on the heritage railway at Keighley & Worth Valley, over the hill in Yorkshire.

“I’m really keen on shared apprenticeship experiences like this, which are great for both businesses and the apprentices. 

“I’d like to explore the idea further, and will be looking to work with some of our world-class local employers on this prospect in the future.”