More than 500 girls from schools across the eastern region attended the WiC-ed (Women into Construction and Engineering) event held for the third year running in Bedford this month.

Women of all ages took part in practical activities from plumbing to thatching. They were able to talk to professionals from the industry about the opportunities available, receiving advice and guidance from experts about getting started on a career for life.

Former Bedford College students Mel Chalkly and Sandra Edwards were there to speak to visitors about the experience since setting up their own interior design and painting and decorating business, Pink Ladders.

They said: "We want to encourage girls and women to get into the trade and there are so many industries here today from bricklaying to planning and surveying.

"The women of today should be able to feel confident about joining what have been male dominated industries in the past.

"It is hard work setting up a new business and you need the combination of qualifications and experience. Apprenticeships are an excellent way of gaining that experience.