If you’re a young person in Preston and looking for a foot in the door there’s a chance to see more than 50 of the city and Lancashire’s biggest employers.

The first ever Apprenticeship Expo is taking place at the Guild Hall during March.

Companies such as Leyland Trucks, United Utilities, Harrison-Drury and organisations like the NHS will also be attending.

Preston’s College is one of the partners behind the event, which also includes Lancashire Police and the University of Central Lancashire.

Head of employer engagement and recruitment at the college Andrew Richardson said: “Lancashire has a fantastic diversity of businesses that are realising the important contribution that investing in local talent can bring, rather than losing it elsewhere.

“The Expo will bring together employers to meet potential candidates, enabling businesses to showcase what they offer and ultimately recruit direct.”

Read more: Huge business expo coming to Preston

The show is free to attend for anyone interested in apprenticeships.

Held on Tuesday 14 March between 12noon and 7pm at Preston Guild Hall the event times with the Apprenticeships Levy come into force from the government.

It encourages more large organisations to take on 16 to 18-year-olds and be given grants of £1,000 to small businesses who take on apprentices.

Read more: BAE recruiting new apprentices for Samlesbury and Warton

Any firms interested in showcasing their business at the event can contact Shout Network on 01772 642830 or email ian@shoutnetwork.co.uk