BETH Jeffrey had no idea that she would find the job of her dreams when she called in to ask art gallery owners if they would display her drawings.

Maralyn and Ron O'Keefe, of The Glass and Art Gallery, in Medomsley Road, Consett, were so impressed by Beth that they offered her a job on the spot.

The 20-year-old, who lives in Blackhill, is taking an NVQ in business administration, with a Modern Apprenticeship through the Learning and Skills Council County Durham.

She is already taking responsibility for running the gallery and is involved with the couple's other two businesses, North East Stained Glass Supplies and Glass Design UK.

Mrs O'Keefe creates stained glass windows for churches across the North-East, which can each take months to complete.

Beth is following in the footsteps of Bridget Hughes, 23, the company's first Modern Apprentice - who is now helping to train Beth - and Liam Lumley, 20, who works in the glass supply side of the business.

"When I brought some of my wildlife pencil drawings into the gallery, I never dreamed it would lead to this," she said.

"I'm not only getting qualifications through the apprenticeship, but I'm also learning about running the gallery and working with stained glass.

"One day I hope to produce something as beautiful as the pieces that Maralyn and Bridget create."

The family firm recently rewarded Bridget with a visit to Venice to see Murano glass being made, as a thank you for her five years' service.

"The apprenticeships have been such a success for us," said Mrs O'Keefe.

"We felt that Bridget's five years' service warranted something special. "