MORRISONS is looking to hire apprentices to learn butchery and bakery skills.

The nationwide chain, which has two superstores in Swindon, on Dorcan Way and Regent Circus, is hiring 500 more apprentices over the next 12 months.

They will be trained in traditional crafts, such as how to make bread and how to advise customers on the best cuts of meat.

Clare Grainger, Morrison's people director, said: “This investment in craft skills is so important because our customers want food that is made fresh each day. Many want to buy a particular joint, or to vary the slices of meat from the deli, have fat trimmed, bones removed, or advice on how to cook and prepare food.

“By ensuring our foodmakers are qualified experts we can serve our customers better and provide products and advice that our customers enjoy.”

The company says it is trying to preserve the traditional skills traditionally handed down through independent shops on the high street.