A DALE teenager is starting her working life welcoming people to the area where she grew up.
Lauren Bell, from Forest-in-Teesdale, has joined the North Pennines AONB Partnership as business administration apprentice, based at the Bowlees Visitor Centre.
The two-year apprenticeship will focus on customer service and visitor information and the retail operation at Bowlees.
She will also be helping to co-ordinate a programme of events that raise awareness of the North Pennines AONB and UNESCO Global Geopark.
Additionally, Lauren will be involved in the promotion of the centre and activities through the North Pennines AONB Partnership’s social media channels.
Simon Wilson, AONB business manager, said: “We’re delighted to have Lauren on board and after her initial induction, she’s ready to welcome visitors to Bowlees Visitor Centre.”
Lauren attended Teesdale School to study for GCSEs and was a pupil at Forest-in-Teesdale Primary School. She is a farmer’s daughter with a strong connection to the area.
She said: “I was very keen to apply for the apprenticeship as it is a different way into the world of work, and also allows me to work close to home while expanding my skills.
“I love the area, and I am looking forward to helping visitors to make the most of their time here.
“The North Pennines is a great place to come and get away from it all, and take advantage of the peace and quiet and the beautiful landscape.”
The post has been supported by the Teesdale Area Action Partnership (TAP) and Durham County Council. Adam White, TAP co-ordinator said: “Not only are we able to help a local young person into work, we’ll also be supporting the overall offer to visitors to upper Teesdale.”
