TWO apprentices have been hired to work on the Mersey Gateway.

Merseylink scaffolding specialist Altrad NSG has taken on David McNamara, 22, and Paul Humphries, 20, from Runcorn.

The pair have joined the scaffolding and industrial services specialist on a 20-month apprenticeship scheme.

The subcontractor is supplying all the scaffolding and access required for the construction of Halton’s new bridge and 9.2km road network.

New recruits David, from Halton Brook, and Paul from Grangemoor, are supporting experienced workers as they erect scaffolding for the bridge piers, pylons and elevated approach roads.

David, who is based on site at Ditton in Widnes, said: “I’ve worked with Altrad NSG as a labourer since I left school and I’m keen to progress in the trade.

“When I asked about opportunities I was encouraged to apply for the apprenticeship.

“I’m enjoying it a lot, it’s like working with big Lego. I’m learning so much from working on site and the lads are really supportive.”

Paul has joined the scaffolding gang working on the moveable scaffolding system.

He said: “I applied for the apprenticeship because I want to learn a trade. I’m enjoying finding out what all of the scaffolding equipment is and how it works.”

The pair will be learning on the job alongside senior scaffolders while working towards qualifications.

So far 21 apprentices have been hired to work on the Mersey Gateway Project in office administration, accountancy, IT, traffic management, scaffolding, steel fixing and general construction.

Merseylink has directly appointed 12 apprentices and nine have been employed by the project’s subcontractors, which include Altrad NSG, Sword, Tarmac and Adept 4.