A West Norfolk company is delighted by a scheme which has allowed it to employ its first apprentice. Matthew Smith has been recruited through an apprenticeship scheme in conjunction with the College of West Anglia. His employers are EOC Services, one of East Anglia’s most respected air conditioning and air source heat pump contractors, based at Downham Market. The company, which now employs 27 people, began as a specialist in the air conditioning industry in 1991 with air source heat pumps becoming part of the business in 2006. EOC Services works with the College of West Anglia in King’s Lynn and currently employs Matthew on a Level 2 plumbing and heating apprenticeship. Matthew, from Watlington, who previously studied at Downham Market Academy, said: “I decided that completing an apprenticeship would give me more opportunities in the future and the chance to work and earn money while still gaining a qualification.” Andy Hovell, heating director, said: “We decided to take on an apprentice as the company has continued to grow. Matthew continues to constantly improve and we can see benefits from him completing the qualifications with the College of West Anglia.” “The Norfolk Apprenticeship Project wage subsidy has helped towards Matthew’s onsite training and I hope that Norfolk County Council continue funding this important part of youth development, especially within the construction industry,” he added.   PICTURE   First apprentice…Matthew Smith, right, with EOC Services heating director.