A CUMBRIAN MP has celebrated the importance of apprenticeships at a recent event in parliament.

Rory Stewart, MP for Penrith and the Border, attended the Interserve reception, which aimed to promote the importance of apprenticeships across all UK industries.

Speaking at the House of Commons event on April 24, Mr Stewart highlighted his view that responsible business and apprenticeships 'go hand in hand'.

He said: "In Cumbria, I see local dedication to providing apprenticeships as key not just to our economy, but more importantly to the hopes and aspirations of young Cumbrians - enhancing their job prospects, giving them the chance to learn a wide range of skills, and helping them gain experience in different environments."

The event coincided with Mr Stewart's nomination to the APPG for Corporate Responsibility's '2016 Responsible Business Awards' of Penrith-based business Ast Signs, for its dedication to young people through its apprenticeship scheme.

Ast Signs have seven apprentices in total, making up more than 10% of their total workforce.

The programme helps the business to attract talented young local people as new recruits and provides an alternative means of career progression.

The annual Responsible Business Awards is a parliamentary scheme whereby MPs are given a chance to nominate businesses who show a dedication to apprenticeships and training.