The Institute of the Motor Industry is highlighting the opportunities for new entrants to the sector as part of this week's National Apprenticeship Week.

Its data shows that in the last year over 11,000 young people have chosen to start an automotive apprenticeship.

As the Sector Skills Council for the retail motor industry the IMI partners with industry employers to identify the sector’s current and future skill needs. It promotes and facilitates solutions to increase the professional competence and career prospects of over 500,000 employees.

Stirling Wood, the IMI's head of skills development, said: “The retail automotive industry is an attractive sector to work in which is open to all and has very clear career progression pathways.

Apprenticeships continue to be a fantastic way to get into the industry and it is great to see the success that former apprentices have achieved.”