The number of apprenticeships available to residents in Dover and Deal has risen by 100% since 2009.

In five years, the number has increased from 440 to 880.

Dover and Deal’s MP, Charlie Elphicke, said: “It’s great that the number of apprenticeships has doubled locally since the last election. These figures show the value of apprenticeships to businesses in Dover."

According to government figures, 868,700 people took part in apprenticeships in 2012 and 2013, which is the highest recorded in modern history.

This equates to a rise of 77% since 2009.

New research has also been released showing the economic value of apprentices to businesses in Dover.

Figures from the Association of Accounting Technicians demonstrate that new apprentices boosted local business in Dover by £1.9 million in 2013.

Nationally, apprenticeships boosted the British economy by £1.8 billion.

Mr Elphicke added: “Every time a firm in Dover takes on an apprentice, their business benefits, on average, to the tune of £2,162.

“I am passionate about ladders in life and a stronger future for our young people. We need to do everything we can to encourage even more apprenticeships, giving young people more skills to get on and do really well in life.”