The Last Drop Village Hotel & Spa in Bromley Cross, Bolton is delighted to offer apprenticeship opportunities to 18-year-old Nathan Pilling and 16-year-old Lucy Cuff as they take their first steps in their career.

The hotel, which boasts on-site restaurants, function and wedding suites, bars, a spa, and a luxury suite of bedrooms, strongly believes in investing in young people to give them the skills to progress directly in to industry.

The Last Drop Village Hotel & Spa was acquired by the Emerson Group from Alderley Edge three years ago, since then it has undergone a major refurbishment of bedrooms, conference suites and public areas. This has generated increased employment opportunities, the demand for skilled staff has increased and the original team of eight chefs has grown to a team of 20.

Executive Chef John Sergeant believes strongly in apprenticeships and the benefits it offers both the business and the apprentice. John said, "Training apprentices allows me to pass on my skills and knowledge to the next generation. It is hard to find high quality chefs so to have the opportunity to upskill the future is very rewarding."

Former Thornleigh High School pupil Lucy has undertaken a Customer Service apprenticeship where she is assisting the sales & events team. Lucy hopes this apprenticeship will lead her to an exciting career as a Wedding and Events planner.

Lucy said, "I am really enjoying working on different events during this apprenticeship. My confidence is improving, and I like dealing with event enquiries."

Cooking up a storm in the hotel kitchen is Professional Cookery apprentice Nathan who impressed Executive Chef John during a work experience opportunity. Upon completion of the work experience, Nathan was offered an apprenticeship position. Nathan is working alongside a team of highly qualified chefs to prepare and cook foods for weddings, events and conferences.

Nathan said, "My apprenticeship is great, I really like getting the hands-on experience needed to progress within the Catering industry."

If you would like to find out any more information about The Last Drop, give them a call on 01204 873500