BUSINESSES across Dorset can draw inspiration from a British manufacturing success story where apprenticeships are highly valued.

That was the view of the boss of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ian Girling, after members toured the space-age Jaguar assembly plant in the West Midlands, to see first-hand how the luxury marque has gone from strength to strength.

DCCI chief executive Ian Girling said: “We have some great manufacturing and engineering firms in the county and we felt that insight would be gained with a first-hand visit to this iconic brand.

“Jaguar places great store in its apprentices in a way that we should do more of here in Dorset, bringing on the next generation of designers and engineers and developing strong British products which are the envy of the world.

“We came away inspired by the way Jaguar does everything, from meticulous attention to detail and quality assurance to lean manufacturing, posture-friendly ergonomics.

“One of our roles now will be to share that passion with as many of our 703 members as possible.”