MOTOR industry training provider Skillnet, welcomed HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York, on his recent visit to CEME (Centre for Engineering and Manufacturing Excellence).

The Duke of York - whose role supports small businesses and entrepreneurs - attended the CEME workshops in Rainham, Essex, where he was introduced to Ford Engineering Apprentices in various disciplines, including Machining, Electronics, Electrical Installation, Maintenance and Motor Vehicle.

The Duke of York spoke personally to the apprentices - including Vanessa Clayden, Jenna White, George Fleming, John Coombes and Harry Gurnett - about their training, the skills they had learnt, how long had they been on the Apprenticeship programme and their aspirations for their future career within Ford Motor Company.

Commenting on the visit, Ford Engineering Apprenticeship Manager at Skillnet, Ian Gannon, said: "It's an absolute honour to welcome His Royal Highness, the Duke of York, to CEME; his visit has helped to reinforce the excellent work the team and the Apprentices are doing every day." Gannon continued: "Prince Andrew has a specific interest in skills and Apprenticeships, hence his interest in visiting CEME. Having been a helicopter pilot, he showed particular interest in the electronics and maintenance aspects of the Ford training programme."

The Duke of York's visit follows the Government's recent appointment of two Apprenticeship Ambassadors to help promote Apprenticeships in the UK.