Northumberland's young adults are being encouraged to train in the heating industry to address a significant workforce shortfall.

The plea comes during National Careers Week, which runs from March 4 to 9 and aims to highlight job market opportunities.

Recent government data showed a near five per cent drop in apprentices beginning in 2022/23, with less than a quarter under the age of 19.

To combat this, OFTEC, a registration and training provider for off-grid heating workers, is promoting the opportunities on offer from working in the heating sector

David Knipe, OFTEC training manager, said: "With new low carbon technologies on the market and the demand for reliable technicians increasing, it’s the perfect time for young people to embark on a career in the heating industry."

He added that apprenticeships offer a pathway to employment, especially in light of rising university fees.

This call to action coincides with the industry's focus on greener heating systems, such as heat pumps and renewable fuels.

Mr Knipe continued: "To deliver the transition to greener heating, we need more people entering the industry to help drive this change.

"That’s why OFTEC continues to expand its training for both renewable liquid fuels and heat pumps so technicians are equipped for the future."