Engineers at a Bicester-based Classic car restoration programme have been shortlisted for a national award.

The classic vehicle restoration apprenticeship at Banbury and Bicester College is the first of its type in the country aiming to close the skills gap in the industry.

It started in 2014 and is now in the running for the apprenticeship programme of the year at TES FE Awards 2016, which recognise the best and brightest in further education.

Pablo Lloyd, chief executive of Activate enterprise which runs the college, said: "This award shortlisting recognises the value of our college partnerships to deliver industry leading apprenticeship programmes. The classic vehicle restoration apprenticeship has been developed with businesses who share our desire to prepare young people for successful employment.

"The take-up from both businesses and apprentices has been fantastic. The first cohort of apprentices will complete their programmes this year and will then continue to build their careers as qualified technicians and specialists."

The programme hopes to get more people tinkering around with classic engines in response to Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs research that found the industry is in desperate need of new talent as more employees retire.

The scheme began with nine employees and in 2015 another 11 joined.

The winner of the award will be announced on Friday, April 22.