Rochester and Strood MP Kelly Tolhurst praised apprenticeship opportunities in Medway at an event she organised for more than 500 young people.

Students from Mid Kent College attended the apprenticeship fair along with pupils from nine secondary schools.

These includes Fort Pitt Grammar School, Hundred of Hoo Academy, Victory Academy and Chatham Grammar School for Girls.

The event was held at Medway UTC last month to showcase the range of apprenticeships on offer in the area.

More than 30 employers took part, including BAE Systems, Medway Council and Kent Police.

Ms Tolhurst wanted to hold the fair to show young people that there is an alternative to university study with a major rise in the number of apprenticeships of offer.

She said: “I personally didn’t go to university. I left school and completed my qualifications while I was working, so I know the value of being in a work environment and learning at the same time.

“We have some really good providers of apprenticeships in Medway. We live in a really good place with lots of exciting opportunities for young people.”