TWO best friends from Runcorn are starting the new year with new jobs.

Karen Nicholson and Yvonne Meakin have joined the Mersey Gateway project.

They both landed jobs with bridge builder Merseylink just weeks after taking part in the construction consortium’s volunteer programme.

Yvonne has been appointed as PA to Merseylink’s project director, while Karen has joined as the team’s community liaison officer.

Karen and Yvonne previously worked together as civil servants in Runcorn for 15 years at the Department for Education, but left the DfE when it relocated from Runcorn to Manchester city centre.

Keen to give something back to the local community, the pair decided to join the Mersey Gateway volunteer scheme.

The initiative trains up local people to help tell the story of Halton and the iconic bridge project.

Karen and Yvonne both enjoyed the volunteer scheme so much they decided to apply for full-time jobs with the project.

Yvonne said: “We’re both really inquisitive and thought it would be a great way to find out what was happening with the new bridge.

“ It’s a fantastic development for Halton.”

Karen said: “I’m really enjoying being part of the project team and it’s amazing to be working with Yvonne again.

“ When we started out as volunteers we never imagined that we’d end up working on the project, and we’re very excited to be part of the full-time team.”

Merseylink is still looking for new recruits to join its full-time team in a variety of roles.

It has has received nearly 2,000 applications from Halton residents interested in different positions.

Richard Walker, project director at Merseylink, said: “The volunteer programme was set up to help people improve their skills, confidence and employment prospects.

“The fact we have been able to employ two of our volunteers illustrates just how valuable the scheme is.

“I’m delighted to welcome Karen and Yvonne on board and I’m looking forward to working with them both.”

Cllr Rob Polhill, leader of Halton Council, and chairman of the Mersey Gateway Crossings Board, said: “This is an excellent example of how Halton residents can benefit from the training, employment and enterprise opportunities on offer through the Mersey Gateway project.

“Whether it’s through volunteering, apprenticeships or direct employment, Halton residents have an important part to play in the delivery of this iconic construction project.

I’d encourage anyone interested to take up the chance to get involved.”