Lovell is giving a young man from Derby the chance to build a career in the construction industry as it carries out major housing improvement works in the area in partnership with affordable housing provider, Amber Valley Housing.

Trainee carpenter Robert Loomes, 21, is currently learning his trade with Lovell under the company's apprenticeship scheme. He is working for Lovell on site in Ashbourne as part of a five-year, £50 million improvement programme which the company is carrying out across Derbyshire with Amber Valley Housing.

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In addition to his work on site, Robert attends the Lovell Craft Academy, the company's national apprentice training centre based within Stephenson College in Coalville, Leicestershire on a block release basis where he is studying for an NVQ Level 2 qualification in carpentry and joinery.

He was working for a sub-contractor on a Lovell site when he decided to swap career and train to become a carpenter.

"I had always wanted to work in construction," said Robert. "I spoke to Emma Giles, the Lovell regional training advisor, about my options and have just begun my apprenticeship."

Robert has carried out a variety of work as part of his apprenticeship including hanging doors and working on joists, roofs and floorings. He is due to complete his apprenticeship in 2010.

(CD/JM)