A RECORD number of apprentices are being trained to build the next fleet of nuclear-powered submarines in Barrow as plans were announced to take on hundreds more in 2017.

BAE Systems is training 2,000 workers across the country to complete the seven-boat Astute class and preparing to build four Dreadnought class subs as part of the Successor programme which was launched in October.

However, the engineering firm plants to recruit a further 574 apprentices by September 2017 as it is predicted that 5,000 members of staff will be working on the programme in the early 2020s.

He said: “Our big challenge now which I have discussed at length is to ensure that the investment coming into the shipyard leaves a lasting legacy for all parts of Furness.

“This is our opportunity to market this incredible centre of manufacturing and engineering excellence to the world.”