Eight young people have been awarded qualifications through an apprenticeship scheme run by Avon and Somerset Constabulary, and many of them have joined the force as full-time employees.

Sophie Avent, Sallie Barnes, Jake Lambert, Jade Nichols and Victoria Parsons are the latest to complete the business administration level 2 apprenticeship scheme, which has been giving young people the opportunity to earn while they learn for more than 10 years.

The apprentices have now attained a National Vocational Qualification.

Jake Lambert, 17, of Kingswood, was named Apprentice of the Year after completing a year-long placement in the Criminal Justice Unit. He is now a police clerical officer.

Karl Francis, who lives in South Wales and Aaron Morgan of Portishead, also successfully completed second-year apprenticeships for light vehicle technicians. They will complete the remainder of their course in Avonmouth.

Assistant Chief Constable Rod Hansen, who presented the awards, said: "Apprenticeships are hugely important for young people. These bright young individuals are our workforce of the future."

Sophie, 20, of Downend, has joined the force as a National Criminal Records Bureau research officer and is also a Special Constable.

Jade, 20, of Portishead, is now the PA to the head of communications and Victoria, 19, of Little Stoke, has joined the HR communications team as an administration assistant.