Apprentices are good for business

Ian and partner Adele with apprentice Tom

An entrepreneurial Rochdale couple have been the first to take advantage of the Government’s recent employer incentives to take on apprentices.

Local man Ian Shaw contacted the Apprenticeships Team at Hopwood Hall College to source suitable training for his new business venture.

In April this year he felt equipped to go it alone and open his own business, a fish and chip shop on Yorkshire Street in Rochdale.

With an ever-growing family, his 6 children and partner Adele will make the business a family business with everyone having a role in its success.

Ian has recruited an apprentice, 18-year-old Tom Bray, he says; "I have been unable to find employment previously; this is a great opportunity for me to get a career and get paid too - thanks Ian."

Ian and partner Adele think that other local businesses should follow suit: "My experience of training has helped me and I want to help other local residents succeed".