TEENAGERS will be the focus of a campaign to help tackle the shortage of trained staff in Cheshire's fast growing tourism industry.

The campaign, by Warrington and Cheshire Tourism Board, is in response to concerns within the area's tourism industry over a lack of trained and motivated staff.

Enthusiastic 14-year-olds are now being given the opportunity through their schools to apply for one of 24 specially created Young Apprenticeships due to start in September.

The two-year young apprenticeship in hospitality will see ambitious teenagers spending two days each week learning and training for a career in the hospitality industry.

Mike Cooksley, chairman of Warrington and Cheshire Tourism Board, said: "Working with our partners we've set ambitious targets to double visitor spending in Cheshire to £1.5billion by 2015.

"Talented young people with the right skills and attitudes are key to helping us achieve that success.

"This new initiative will help fulfil that need."