An industry-led apprenticeship scheme encouraging young people into careers in agriculture is celebrating its 300th placement.

EDGE Apprenticeships in Food & Farming has been operating for just over a year and a half. The 300th apprentice to join the programme is Jack Wood, 16, of Tiptree, who is studying for his Level 2 apprenticeship in Land-Based Service Engineering at Easton & Otley College through EDGE. The former Thurstable High pupil is working at Upsons Mowers in Maldon, helping to recondition mowers and with pre delivery inspections on machinery.

Employer Duncan Ninnis said: “Jack is a breath of fresh air. He came here almost by accident and is now doing extremely well, much better than we expected of him and he gets on really well with the team.”