AN AUTOMOTIVE manufacturer based in Bayton has become the first company to receive an upskilling grant from Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC).
The Pembleton Motor Company was rewarded the funding as part of the Upskilling Grant scheme which aims to help local businesses create their workforce of the future.
Pembleton Motor Company was established in 1999 by ex-National Hill Climb Champion and designer Phil Gregory.
Phil’s son Guy has since took over day to day management of the business in 2015, where Pembleton sports cars are still lovingly hand-built to this day.
The car manufacturer took on an apprentice in November 2015 who will gain valuable work experience as well as keep the heritage of the company alive through training.
Guy Gregory, company director of Pembleton Motor Company, said: “For us it was a no brainer to hire an apprentice, the very specific job means we want to train individuals on exactly the way to manufacture our cars.
“It was a really simple process to apply for the grant through the council and it feels like there is genuine support and backing on their behalf. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend taking on an apprentice”.
Coun Beverley Nielsen, portfolio holder for economic development and tourism at MHDC said: “This scheme is a great opportunity for local businesses.
“We currently have three further businesses approved to receive the grant, and applications are still open for more businesses to apply and to take the chance to nurture new talent in their specific industry.”
