Young farmers John Wearmouth, of Glusburn, and Jack Berry, of Silsden, have completed their Modern Apprenticeships in agriculture.

Their three-year course at Craven College, Skipton, combined practice and study to NVQ Level 3, including livestock and crop husbandry and enterprise management skills.

Initial training in the practical and management skills was delivered at the college, with much of the practice and assessment of practical skills taking place at their workplaces, where the employer makes a significant contribution to the training award.

John, 20, has worked at dad George's Near Leys Farm since leaving South Craven School at 16. The 120-acre farm, which has been in the family for the last 55 years, has a small dairy herd and some lambing ewes.

Jack, also 20, has worked with his uncle, John Throup, at 300-acre Lower House Farm, Silsden Moor, since leaving South Craven at 16. The farm has beef cattle and sheep, and has been in the family for around 50 years.

Course tutor Edward Wilkinson said John and Jack both demonstrated an exemplary commitment and ability in the skills required in an increasingly technological industry, and the college fully supported their achievement in obtaining their awards.

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