THE new chair of the Education, Employment and Skills Board has set out how she plans to improve employment skills of people in Wiltshire.

Mandy Paterson said that improving vocational training was a priority for her as she takes up the role on the Wiltshire Council board to drive up economic growth through the Wiltshire Careers Education Programme.

She said: "There is a need to improve the effectiveness of education and business liaison and develop stronger vocational training to bridge the gap between education and employment. The programme offers support to help Wiltshire’s young people understand the options available for them in employment.”

Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children’s services at Wiltshire Council said: “Wiltshire is brimming with potential and skills and we need to link those individuals with exciting opportunities in the workplace."