SUNSEEKER has held a "passing out" ceremony for its latest apprentices and said its plans to hire 225 staff this year are on course.

The Poole- based luxury boatbuilder held the annual ceremony at the Southampton Boat Show, with 15 apprentices who have recently completed their training.

The 15 cover a range of skills including as marine engineers, electricians and carpenters, and are all based in Poole.

They were presented with a champagne breakfast and a certificate of completion by Sunseeker International cheif executive Phil Popham and founder Robert Braithwaite.

Sunseeker, which has been hiring apprentices for more than 35 years, has 90 on its current programme.

It works in partnership with Bournemouth and Poole College and its Marine Technology Centre.

Alex Bowman, talent manager at the company, said: "Today has been a great opportunity for us to reward and recognise the efforts of the apprentices and the staff that have supported their development over the last four years.

"We are continuing to recruit for an extra 225 skilled staff this year, which these apprentices will form part of, and I am looking forward to getting to know the recent intake of 40 apprentices that have joined the Sunseeker family this week."

The Chinese-owned company said restructing and investment were paying off.

Sunseeker marine engineer David Ball, who took part in the ceremony added:"I would definitely recommend the apprenticeship scheme.

"It has been an exciting four years and I am looking forward to the next four.

"My work colleagues have all been really supportive to help me gain my engineering qualifications.

"If you're looking for a career in the marine sector this scheme really sets you up for your future no matter what route you're going to follow."

Sunseeker had 40 apprentices starting work this month.

Speaking to the Daily Echo recently, Mr popham said: "We're assessing our needs for 2017 now. It's likely we will need some more."