The head of a district accountancy firm which is funding a graduate trainee through her studies has called on more firms to commit resources to training.

Clare Robinson, 21, of Baildon has been employed by accountants Clough & Company, which has offices in Cleckheaton and Keighley.

The graduate will study part time over three years to gain full accreditation to the Institute of Chartered Accountants.

She is working within the firm’s audit department shadowing senior team members.

Steven Gash, practice chairman, said: “We have always been committed to providing the best training and support to our employees, and despite the cost to the business, we believe it is money well spent. Many employers are cutting back on their graduate intake but we believe it’s essential to keep attracting young talent.”