TWO young inventors have been applying the skills learnt from their advanced modern apprenticeships to design a gadget for emptying wheelie bins which has been approved for industrial use.

Danny Ridley, 18, of Slaley, and Rosie Atkinson, 17, of Fenham, west Newcastle, are working on their NVQ level three in performing engineering operations, thanks to the Learning and Skills Council Tyne and Wear and the Vickers North East Training Centre, in Scotswood Road, Newcastle.

During their apprenticeship, the pair were asked by Michell Bearings to come up with solutions and designs for a mechanism for carrying and emptying wheelie bins using a fork-lift truck.

Danny and Rosie designed and made a simple prototype with no moving parts. The company was delighted with their work and a production version has now been tested and approved by Lloyds Insurance for use by Michell Bearings.

Both apprentices have been recruited by Team Valley engineering company Domnick Hunter, and they are also extending their studies with a National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering at Newcastle College.

Vickers North East Training Centre operations manager Tony Beeton said: "We are delighted with Danny and Rosie's success and their ability to apply the skills learnt during their modern apprenticeship.

"I think they have surprised themselves with what they have achieved, but it will give them great confidence in their new roles.

"Success breeds success, and showcasing the achievements of our modern apprentices will help us recruit more work-based learners keen to get a foot on the engineering career ladder."

To find out more about modern apprenticeship call 08000 150 600 or go to http://www.realworkreal pay.info.