Thirty-five young people have started their new careers as apprentices with Bristol City Council.

They are taking up trainee posts in a wide range of fields, from administration and youth work to recycling and carpentry.

More than 400 hopefuls applied for the posts, which were offered during the summer as part of a recruitment campaign.

The trainees have been taken on as part of a £190,000 package of measures by the council to help beat the recession.

Council leader Barbara Janke said: "Our strongest commitment is to Bristol people of all backgrounds and I hope that the apprentices will find a challenging career with us and that they will find opportunities to expand their skills and experience."

Lorna Whitehead, the council's human resources manager, said: "The applications were of a very high calibre."

Apprentices will earn £95 per week training allowance for the first year, rising to £115 in the second year if they pass an exam. They will be supported by colleges and other training providers to learn skills while doing a job. The council is hoping to support and encourage other large employers in Bristol to engage with the programme for another intake in December.