DARTMOOR Hill farmers will be able to find help more easily in the future, as a directory of apprentices who have successfully completed the award-winning Moorskills course becomes available this autumn.

Moorskills aims to provide hands-on experience and training to enable apprentices to become a skilled and knowledgeable hill farm labourer.

During the one to two years with Moorskills, the apprentices attend both statuary and bespoke courses as well as working beside a Dartmoor Hill farmer.

After completing the Moorskills apprenticeship, contact details of the apprentices will be listed and available through the Dartmoor Hill farm project to farmers on Dartmoor.

Sam Bullingham, a level three apprentice who completed Moorskills in July, said: It has been a great course, extending my knowledge, and providing the opportunity to improve my skills in all aspects of hill farming.

I want to continue farming my own flock and shearing, but also to be able to work for other farmers on Dartmoor.

The directory will set out what aspect of farming the apprentice is best suited.

Justine Colton, an assessor with Moorskills said: Some of the apprentices are all rounders but others are better with cattle or sheep and others with machinery, stone walling or hedging.

Colin Abel, a farmer with Moorskills, said: The farmers can now reap the time and effort that Moorskills has put into these apprentices.

There is more than enough work for those completing Moorskills on Dartmoor.

It can be challenging at times, but great to have someone that is useful at the end of the course.

Earlier this year Moorskills won the West Devon Mayoral Green Award and in 2007 won the Prince of Wales Award for innovative working with young people.

Moorskills is in the process of recruiting new apprentices and welcomes enquiries from those over 16 years old. Time is short as the new course starts on September 13.

For more information contact Sandra on 01626 836013.