An apprentice will be keeping the lights on as part of his new career.

Louis Trevillion, 17, of High Road, Shillington, is among 30 candidates, selected from 820 applications, to join UK Power Networks’ on-the-job training scheme.

He will work for Britain’s largest electricity network operator, which distributes power across the South East, London and East of England.

Over the next three years he will train to join the teams who keep power flowing to more than a quarter of Britain’s population 24 hours a day.

Louis, who will be based at the company’s depot in Stevenage while he trains to become an electrical fitter, said: “UK Power Networks offers a first class apprenticeship scheme with excellent career prospects. It has an excellent safety record within the industry.

“I am seeking the best possible start for my chosen career with a market leader for apprenticeships in this industry.”

The apprenticeship scheme helps address a shortage in the number of electrical craftsmen joining the industry to train as linesmen, jointers and fitters.

Hundreds of apprentices have been through the company’s structured programme of training and now look after the power network in their communities.

The scheme includes formal training at UK Power Networks’ training centres in Kent and Suffolk and on-the-job experience putting their skills into practice. At the end of their programme the apprentices will qualify with a Qualification and Credit Framework (QCF) Diploma in Electrical Power Engineering.

UK Power Networks offers foundation apprenticeships for school leavers, which are three years, plus advanced apprenticeships, which are two years. To find out more about becoming an apprentice visit http://www.ukpowernetworkscareers.co.uk/