Somerset businesses showed their support for a new national apprenticeship drive on Friday as they celebrated creating 268 new apprentice and work experience placements.

After a week that saw Prime Minister David Cameron announce further multi-million funding for apprenticeships, employers and apprentices came together at a business event in Taunton.

A drive by colleges, training providers, Somerset County Council and Somerset Skills and Employment Board saw 156 employers commit to creating a raft of new working opportunities.

County councillor David Hall, cabinet member responsible for economic development, said: "Today's event has been hugely important in raising awareness of the value of apprenticeships to Somerset's economy.

"Apprenticeship starts across Somerset rose by 45 per cent to 4,500 in total last year, and the recent Get Somerset Working campaign shows that employers are still keen to invest in their workforce and that they value the role of apprentices in developing their businesses."

Kath Gigg, new chairwoman of the Somerset Skills and Employment Board, said: "It is all about helping businesses to recruit the right people. Apprenticeships and work experience placements are key to making this a reality."

Graham Knight from the Get Somerset Working partnership said: "We have been delighted with the number of employers that have got involved with our latest campaign."

For more information on apprenticeships call the National Apprenticeship Service on 08000 150 600 or visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.