A TEAM of apprentices are helping their local cricket club as part of a national competition to promote apprenticeships.

The NYEngApps team, which is made up of engineering apprentices from Derwent Training Association (DTA) in Malton, have entered the Brathay Challenge 2017, which aims to improve the skills of the apprentices in areas such as team building and communication by completing a project in the local area.

Regional heats consist of a community project to benefit young people and activities that raise the profile of the team, their employer and apprenticeships. The top eight teams will continue on as national finalists.

The NYEngApps team, which includes Jordan Layne, Sam Richardson, Sam Beales, Josh Pearce, Luke Woods De Lacy, Harry Proberts, Ben Moyser, Kelly Lambert and Alyssa Wood, worked with Westow Cricket Club.

Alyssa said: “It came to our attention that Westow Cricket Club needed a cricket net, but were struggling to raise funds to buy one.

“The team has been in close contact with the club to ensure it was clear of about the requirements, as well as discussing plans with club members.

“The team has had to use its skills to design the frame and know the exact measurements before building to plan for supplies.

“It had to source a supplier to provide the scaffolding poles and fixings and deliver these.

“All the team started building the frame during the first week in April and have shown fantastic team work and commitment to the project, showing various engineering skills, such as manufacturing and welding.

“We would like to say a big thank you everyone for their support and contributions.”

David Coverdale, from the cricket club’s management committee, said the nets would be of great help with coaching sessions.

“Westow Cricket Club is very active in promoting cricket to young people in the rural area,” he said.

“There are coaching sessions on Sunday mornings running from May for boys and girls of any age and ability.

“The sessions are fun, with a focus on the basics of batting, bowling, catching and fielding. The nets will be of great help.”

For more information on the NYEngApps team, go to derwenttraining.co.uk