Training begins for new £20m bakery

New East Manchester and Jobcentre Plus are running four free three-week training courses starting next month in preparation for the opening of the new bakery in Newton Heath.

Privately owned Fine Lady Bakeries is on site with the £20m bakery which will employ around 250 people when it opens.

Up to 15 places are available to local unemployed people on each course, and all those that complete the training will be guaranteed an interview with Fine Lady Bakeries.

The content of the courses cover such subjects as hygiene, food production and health and safety.

Jobs on offer include LGV drivers, production and dispatch operatives, administration and security.

Eddie Smith, chief executive of New East Manchester, said: "We have developed an excellent partnership with the local Jobcentre Plus and other partners. Together we are committed to offering relevant training for those that are currently unemployed so they have the chance to get back on the career ladder. Safeguarding jobs and creating new employment opportunities for local people is a key priority for New East Manchester. Reducing unemployment significantly improves our ability to regenerate the area."

Joe Street, managing director of Fine Lady Bakeries, said: "We see this as a long-term investment in the area, creating jobs and boosting the local community. We are keen to get the skilled and committed workforce we need from the surrounding area so that local people benefit directly from us being here."

Anyone wishing to access training on the course in July should call Jobcentre Plus on 0161 254 8003. Places are limited.