AN agricultural college is desperate for trainees for rural work placements.

Holme Lacy College, in Hereford, is looking for trainees in all aspects of agriculture to carry out work-based learning in Herefordshire.

"The current agricultural climate is not one in which you would expect to hear of a skills shortage but we have farmers that are crying out for trainees," said Simon Parker, head of agriculture at Holme Lacy College, part of the Pershore Group of Colleges.

"Agriculture is perceived as being a dying industry but this perception is not reflected in the demand, by farmers, for new entrants to the industry."

He said experience was useful but not absolutely necessary.

"Some farmers would prefer a trainee that they can instruct in their own ways, a clean canvas so to speak," he said.

"Work-based learning is the modern equivalent of an apprenticeship.

''The trainee works alongside more experienced staff, learning the skills they will need."

He said regular visits were made by college staff to check the progress of trainees, who spend one day a week at college putting together a portfolio on their training.

Due to the seasonality of rural industries, the traineeships can start and finish anytime during the year and are not confined to the traditional academic year.

Anyone interested in developing a career in land-based industries should phone the college on 01432 870316.