Sellafield Ltd is celebrating the latest group of nuclear professionals to complete industry apprenticeships.

More than 140 apprentices graduated from 21 diverse schemes such as engineering design, health physics monitoring and business administration, and will now enter full-time employment with the company.

The graduation ceremony, held at Whitehaven Golf Club, was attended by Sellafield chief executive officer Paul Foster, former chief executive of Gen2 Mike Smith, and Donna Connor, head of training and skills for Sellafield Ltd.

Copeland MP Trudy Harrison and Workington MP Sue Hayman were also present.

They praised the company’s training programme for demonstrating the outstanding talent and vital skills that are being developed in the area.

“Sellafield Ltd continues to play a crucial role in the recruitment and development of our young people,” said Mrs Harrison.

“I’m delighted to hear that once again the company is training an impressive number of female engineers and scientists who I’m sure will have a successful career in the industry.”

Mrs Hayman said: “It’s important for the future success of the area that we continue to provide opportunities for our young people.

"Training providers such as Gen2, local universities and colleges, in partnership with Sellafield Ltd and its supply chain are playing a vital part in their development.”

The ceremony also saw one apprentice given extra recognition for his achievements.

Project management apprentice Andrew Bennett was given the Rexel UK Community Award for his contribution to the community after giving talks in schools about the benefits of apprenticeships, and being involved in recruitment drives including a live radio broadcast to 560 students.

He said: “I feel very fortunate to have taken part in an excellent apprenticeship with Sellafield Ltd, and wanted to give something back to the community.

"The next step for me is working in infrastructure projects for the IT department at Sellafield.”

Jodi Hall, Carl Lesley and Jackson Sharpe collected Sellafield Workbook Awards.