NORTHERN Powergrid has begun the first stage of an eight-year recruitment drive that will see more than 800 people join start a new career in the energy industry.

The company, which transports electricity to 3.9 million homes and businesses across Yorkshire, the North East, and Northern Lincolnshire, is opening its 2015 craft apprenticeship programme for applications.

Opportunities for overhead linesmen, underground cable jointers, and electrical substation fitters are available.

Lindi Hutchinson, director of human resources at Northern Powergrid, said: “We want to attract a new generation of people into our business.

“Over the next eight years, we will take on around 100 new craft and technical recruits every year.

“Our craft apprentices will work as part of a skilled team and receive the training they need to develop an exciting career in the energy industry.”

Interested candidates should Visit northernpowergrid.com/careers to Complete a form on an online application on northernpowergrid.com/careers form to apply before the deadline of April 6.

Successful applicants will be invited to participate in a practical assessment, followed by a final interview.