TWO Hambleton apprentices have taken top spot in an awards scheme for young people.

The Hambleton District Council initiative celebrates the success of the authority’s apprentice scheme, which was created as part of the authority's ‘Changing Lives Building Better Business’ project.

Launched in 2012 to support the local economy and boost business, it allocates cash to businesses wanting to employ apprentices but unable to afford to.

Jake Rigby of J M Barnfather and Amy Maude of Rejuven were this year’s winners of the Hambleton Business Apprentice of the Year Award. They were described as outstanding candidates who are both great ambassadors for the apprenticeship scheme.

Highly Commended awards went to: Eve Duxbury from Northallerton Insurance Services, Charlie Wilkinson from Herbs Unlimited, Liam Taylor from Bathroom Furniture Solutions and Hayley Garner from Arty Party.

District council leader Cllr Mark Robson said: "This scheme has gone from strength to strength with more and more businesses wanting to get involved.

"Without it some of our businesses would not have been able to grow, it has given them the confidence to do so. We look forward to helping many more."