More than 70 apprentices from some of Britain’s leading aerospace, defence, security and space companies attended the ADS Parliamentary Reception in the House of Commons.

David Jackson, 23 from Ayr, works with UTC Prestwick as a mechanic inspector was one of the lucky people to visit London and meet MP Corri Wilson.

David completed a four year apprenticeship with UTC and Ayr College to land the role he is now doing.

The apprentices were joined by Corri Wilson MP to celebrate the 9,000 apprenticeships provided by the UK’s aerospace, defence, security and space industries.

The event, organised by the trade organisation ADS Group, and sponsored by UTC Aerospace Systems, highlighted the valuable contribution apprentices are making to important, high-skill manufacturing industries, and the world-leading technologies that many of them are working to develop.

Ms Wilson said: “I was delighted to welcome apprentices from Ayrshire to the House of Commons. It was great to meet so many young engineers working towards highly-skilled and rewarding careers.

“They are great ambassadors for the UK’s advanced manufacturing industries.” Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of ADS Group, said: “Our high-skill sectors are reliant on a new generation of talented and well-trained employees. In return they look set to enjoy rewarding careers within some of the UK’s most successful and exciting industries.

“This reception is important to showcase the huge talent already working in our sectors and to encourage more young people to consider the opportunities on offer.”