Fife-based interior fit out and refurbishment firm, Havelock Europa PLC, has welcomed the first 23 recruits into its academy.

The Havelock Academy will offer the recruits an initial six months paid work experience. From this group, a number will then be chosen to undertake a full Modern Apprenticeship with the company.

Havelock employs around 450 people in Fife and the firm said its new academy scheme is an investment to its future in the area.

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Paul Doleman, Operations Director at Havelock's Kirkcaldy factory, said: "Havelock Europa PLC has been a major business player in Fife area for many years. The company is constantly evolving and seeking ways to increase market share.

"With both our Head Office and Manufacturing Plant based in Fife, we are keen to support the Council’s work on youth unemployment. To this end, Havelock has increased its Apprenticeship Programme and aims to hire at least 12 apprentices in 2013. This big step for the company will open a new page in our history and we hope build on our established tradition of sourcing a large part of our workforce from the local community."

The apprentices will be able to choose between:

• Carpentry & Joinery
• Wood Machining
• Fabrication & Welding
• General Business Administration

(JP/CD)