Malton-based construction and development company S Harrison Group has recruited three trainees at sites in York as part of its commitment to training in the region.

Working with the Construction Industry Training Board, Harrison has successfully submitted its second training and development plan and taken on five trainees in total to work on projects throughout Yorkshire, including the recently completed Merchant Exchange development in York.

The schemes, which aim to equip trainees with hands-on experience and reward them with full time positions upon successful completion, range from engineer secondments to bricklayer apprenticeships and construction management year placements.

Alex Isted, 22, one of the recruits, said: "I'm studying at the University of Northumbria in order to gain an honours degree in construction management. "The degree incorporates a year in industry which I am completing with Harrison as a trainee site manager. It's proving to be a valuable experience."

Another recruit, Matthew Hardcastle, joined the company last July as a bricklayer. His commitment was rewarded with an offer to join the apprentice scheme. He is now working on the Cala Homes site in Lawrence Street, York

Harrison's third York trainee is Jamie Tymon, who joined in November 2000 as assistant engineer.

Updated: 11:04 Tuesday, May 18, 2004