Ford has become the second carmaker to train young offenders as vehicle technicians after launching an initiative with Feltham young offenders' institution in west London.

The scheme, which mirrors one launched by Toyota three years ago at Aylesbury institute, is designed to equip participants with technical skills to NVQ Level 1.

The RMI's training division Remit is supervising the course, which has 12 offenders attending.

On release, they are expected to continue their three-year apprenticeship at a Ford dealership near to home, working towards NVQ Level 3.

Ford expects between 30-40 detainees a year to take the course, and, if successful, is likely to extend it to other centres for young offenders.

Simon Psaila, director of Ford customer service division, said: “This training initiative is giving young offenders the chance to learn a trade.”

Graduates from the Toyota scheme are now looking for employment – two dealers have taken on staff and are encouraging others to do the same.