An MP officially opened an innovative motor skills academy run in partnership by a car dealership and a college.

Ewell’s Nescot College and car dealership Shelly Motors joined forces to open Epsom Motor Academy and its first apprentices started eight weeks ago.

Epsom MP Chris Grayling cut the ribbon at Shelly Motors’ garage on the Longmead Industrial Estate in Epsom on Friday where Nescot’s apprentices spend a day a week.

Mohan Chana, director of employer engagement at the college, said the apprentices gain skills through working with professionals and the latest equipment and vehicles.

Dr Chana said: "The launch was absolutely fantastic. It’s something that Epsom and Ewell definitely requires in terms of the skills and getting the skills back into the industry."

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The first three apprentices are set to be joined by a fourth in coming weeks and the academy is welcoming applications.

Dr Chana said: "It needs time to build up as employers get to know the motor academy is set up in the right way with a reputable dealership."

Jack Shelly established Shelly Motors in Hawaii in the 1950s. His grandson, Andrew, started out washing cars aged 15 and went on to become managing director of the firm.

Mr Shelly said: "We are proud to work alongside Nescot and our young people to create a highly-skilled and talented workforce for the future."

Epsom’s Mayor Councillor Robert Foote also attended the launch. Mr Grayling said: "I think it’s a really great initiative.

"It’s really good to see a strong partnership between a local business and college paving the way for a whole new set of apprentices and a really good approach for building skills locally."

To apply call Dr Chana on 020 8394 3347 or email mchana@nescot.ac.uk

Visit www.shellymotors.com/epsom-motor-academy