The college will be announcing the drive to recruit unemployed people and train them to become a bus or lorry driver during Visitor Economy Week on February 7 at 8am.

A new scheme to help jobseekers find work in the booming logistics sector is to be launched by The City of Liverpool College.

The college will be announcing the drive to recruit unemployed people and train them to become a bus or lorry driver during Visitor Economy Week on February 7 at 8am.

The initiative is being launched at an event held at Abacus UK Training in Huyton .

The college HAS partnered with Abacus UK Training, Northwest Education and Training (NWEAT) and other partners.

Working closely with the Department for Works and Pensions (DWP) and Merseytravel,  more than 250 people have left unemployment, passed their driving tests and have gone on to full time employment in the logistics sector.

The driving test centre for passenger carrying vehicle (PCV) and HGV licences is the only one in Liverpool and anyone who wants to find out more is welcome to attend the official launch on Tuesday, February 7, 8am until till 10am.

The event is open to all, including employers, students, jobseekers and anyone looking for a career change.

Logistics is regarded as one of the city region’s key growth areas, with the opening of the Liverpool2 port terminal this year expected to pave the way for a significant increase in international freight passing through the city.

Elaine Bowker, principal of The City of Liverpool College, said: “Training and qualifications in the logistics sector are vital for strengthening the infrastructure of the Liverpool City Region economy.

“This drive is an important aspect of the work the Logistics Academy has done over the past two years and already more than 250 people have passed their driving tests and found paid employment and apprenticeships.

“The Academy and our new drive is not just about supporting the economy of the region but about helping normal people lift themselves out of joblessness and seek new career opportunities which benefit themselves and their families.”