NEW figures showing that 800 new apprenticeships have been started in West Devon and Torridge has been welcomed by MP Geoffrey Cox.

In total 3,700 new apprenticeships have been started in the area since 2010.

Across England more than 1.9-million apprenticeships have been started since 2010 — with the number of apprenticeships having more than doubled in this parliament.

Mr Cox, MP for West Devon and Torridge, said: 'These figures are great news.

'Around 3,700 new apprenticeships since 2010 means more young people in Torridge and West Devon are getting the skills for they'll need for the future.'