REDDITCH MP Karen Lumley recently paid a visit to a long-established manufacturing business to meet apprentices.

AE Oscroft & Sons Ltd, based on the Washford Industrial Estate, has been manufacturing specialist presswork since 1947, originally supplying the motor industry, but more recently providing a bespoke service in the design and manufacture of pressings, welding, and prototypes in a diverse range of materials.

The family-run business spans three generations and the current managing director is Chris Oscroft.

The MP was asked to present awards to apprentices and to see the work the company is doing in its apprenticeship schemes.

Mrs Lumley said: “University isn’t for everyone and many will gain remarkable satisfaction and the equivalent practical training by doing an apprenticeship.

“I commend AE Oscroft for the continuing commitment they have shown in apprenticeships and for giving young people a flying start in life.”