A course aimed at supporting both graduates and companies has been launched on Teesside.

Bridges and Routes into Engineering has been devised by Teesside University to increase graduates' skills and experience, while boosting small and medium-sized firms.

Candidates taking part are offered 15-week placements and paid £125-a-week to gain on-the-job skills and experience. Employers also benefit from extra staff at no cost.

Marketing graduate James Bingham, 23, is working at Marske Site Services (MSS) as part of the course. He said: "My placement at MSS is particularly exciting because the company is currently expanding. I have learnt a great deal."

Peter Baxter, sales manager at MSS, said: "James has undertaken varied tasks here, including involvement in new systems, estimating, accounts and market analysis."

For more details, ring Faye Thomson, on (01642) 384426