A KEIGHLEY town centre store has given a young apprentice a helping hand onto the career ladder.

Steve Jackson, 20, has won a placement at CeX, in the Airedale Shopping Centre. The shop resells gaming and entertainment products, from CDs through to mobile phones and laptops.

Mr Jackson gained the post after taking a Prince's Trust course at Leeds Campus Leeds City College. He is now working towards an NVQ in retailing.

Store manager Simon Blondel said: “The NVQ Steve is following will be very helpful for his career in retailing, as it shows exactly what he has been doing, whether it’s merchandising, filing or using the till.

“Steve has become great member of the team, and his knowledge of electronics and what's available on the market at the moment is useful for us and our customers.”

The store has also been working with Shipley College, with placements through its supported internships project to help jobseekers with learning difficulties.

Airedale Shopping Centre manager Steve Seymour said: “It’s not easy these days for anyone to get jobs, especially young people, as they're up against experienced professionals who are all competing for every vacancy.

“But it’s good to hear that CeX is trading so well and is able to offer support and training to Steve."

Mr Jackson, a former pupil at University Academy Keighley, said: “When I left school I had no idea what I wanted to do, and getting a job hasn’t been easy.

"I did the Prince’s Trust course at college and that helped me get this apprenticeship. I enjoy CeX because I like technology, and games, so I understand that people are bringing in, and what they want to buy.

“I'm hopeful that when I've finished the course there will be a permanent job for me at the store."