Staffordshire's economic lead has welcomed Jaguar Land Rover's announcement that it is to launch its largest ever apprenticeship recruitment drive.

The car manufacturing giant will create 133 new roles across its plants in South Staffordshire, Solihull, Castle Bromwich, Halewood and Merseyside.

The number is up on 2011 when JLR introduced 114 apprenticeship posts.

The announcement comes just ahead of National Apprenticeship Week which starts on Monday, February 6.

County Councillor Ben Adams said the news would be a boost for the West Midlands' economy.

He said: "This is yet another fantastic announcement that will have a really positive impact on the region's economic growth. Apprenticeships will play a vital role in helping to create a secure financial future, bringing the skills and knowledge that we desperately need.

"In Staffordshire we have been very proactive in supporting young people and helping them to get on the career ladder by running our own apprenticeship scheme.

"Around 280 young people have benefited from the programme since 2009 - a success that has led to the county council being named as one of the country's Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers. This is an accolade that we are incredibly and rightly proud of.

"We will continue to work proactively and closely with major global players like JLR to build upon our achievements and create a thriving job market with skilled workers."

In 2010/11 2,251 16 - 18 year olds started an apprenticeship in Staffordshire. This is a 21% increase from the previous year and is higher than the national average of 13%. The regional increase was 14% over the same period. 

For more information on Staffordshire County Council's apprenticeship scheme please visit www.staffordshireapprentices.org.uk. The county council currently has business administration vacancies in Newcastle, Leek, Stafford and Penkridge.