PLANS are being made for an expanded local timber and woodcraft school.

Graeme Perks, who runs Skill Builders, the social enterprise business training young people in craft and artisan skills, is looking to expand.

He has moved from a workshop in Stanton Lacy and is searching for larger premises and a partner to take the project to the next stage.

“I can see us training a number of apprentices as well as helping older people to gain craft skills,” said Graeme, 49.

“There are also opportunities to put young people who have energy and ideas together with older people who can provide experience of running a business.”

He hopes whichever party wins the General Election, consideration will be given to contracting some training, especially in rural areas, to social enterprises and community- based organisations.

“There have to be new and innovative ways of providing people of all ages with relevant training that can fill a skills gap and be of real benefit to the individuals and to the local economy.

“It is important that people who need help to get employment, irrespective of how old they are, get real support.”