A college in Oxford has received significant funding from the West Oxfordshire District Council for green skills training and other local skills needs.

The sponsorship to Abingdon and Witney College aims to provide valuable training to benefit residents and support the Government’s goal of achieving net zero emissions.

The free courses will begin on July 15, Monday.

For more information or to sign up, visit https://abingdon-witney.ac.uk/free-courses-in-green-skills-and-care.

Cllr Duncan Enright, executive member for Economic Development, said: "We’re really excited about this funding and the huge difference it will make for our communities.

"This is a significant step forward in our mission to boost local job opportunities, bridge the gap in skills training, and strengthen our local towns' economies.

"By offering these training opportunities, we aim to help people gain valuable skills that will lead to better jobs and therefore, a more robust local economy."

The funding comes from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

Abingdon and Witney College will use the funds to hold free courses in areas such as health, care, and hospitality.

Jacqui Canton, principal and chief executive of Abingdon and Witney College, said: "We are thrilled to launch this initiative, offering free courses that will empower individuals in West Oxfordshire with essential skills in both the care and green technology sectors."

The college aims to help 100 individuals in West Oxfordshire gain certificates and at least 130 with the opportunity to complete courses in green skills.