Builders and timber merchant Howarth Timber & Building Supplies has employed two new apprentices at its Thorne branch.
Natalie Rasberry and Alex Hibbard, both 20, will have access to one-on-one tutorage as well as being able to take online courses as part of Howarth Timber’s apprentice academy.

Initially working predominantly in the yard and on the sales desk of the Thorne Branch, the pair will be given the opportunity to progress within the company.

They will also be trained in a range of skills including how to use a forklift, woodwork machinery and customer service. The apprenticeships will last for around two years and will see the pair graduate with a NVQ Level 2 Qualification.

John Brandon, manager of the Thorne branch, said: “Howarth Timber has always realised the importance of investing in the future of the company and we very much believe in the importance of having a strong youth policy. By getting apprentices in young, we develop people to meet the needs of the role, rather than having to retrain. Taking on apprentices gives us the opportunity to teach good working practices from day one – bad habits never have time to develop.

“Both Alex and Natalie have proven to be very committed and hardworking since joining the team and we couldn’t be happier. We’ve had brilliant feedback from our customers and they’re both usually in well before starting time and full of ideas – it’s great to see our investment in the future paying off right before our eyes.”