BURNLEY Council is currently employing 21 apprentices in its workforce, according to new figures.

Heather Brennan, people and development manager at Burnley Council, said: “This represents five per cent of the council’s full time equivalent workforce.

“Whilst this is a reduction from the 6.5 per cent reported last year, there are 12 vacant posts on the establishment currently (compared to three in March 2013) caused in part by a number of apprentices recently moving into employment elsewhere or roles within the council.

“Most of the resulting vacant posts will be advertised in April/May this year. All service units continue to have at least one apprentice in their structure and this will continue in 2014.”