Jobcentre plus helps apprentice working with the Applegarth Skyline

Brookside farm in Stocksfield, the only commercial producer of British hens which lay blue eggs, has expanded its workforce as it aims to increase production.

Farmer David Applegarth recently took advantage of a work trial scheme offered by Hexham Jobcentre to find a new apprentice to help him run the business in Broomley. He recruited James Teasdale (19), of Wylam, after agreeing to offer the opportunity for jobseekers to try out in the role whilst continuing to claim their benefits.

David, who has over 20 years experience in raising birds, is the only commercial producer of the Applegarth Skyline, a breed which can be traced directly back to birds bred by Professor Punnett, the renowned geneticist and poultry specialist from Cambridge University. After spending the last eight years selling birds commercially the increasing trend for free-range and organic products persuaded David to take on additional staff to help him grow the business.

David said:

"With the current demand for free-range and organic production, many of the characteristics of older breeds are in demand again and the high quality blue egg is certainly one of those. My aim is to reach up to 600 chicks per week and together with James I’m sure we can make that happen now.

"I was really impressed with the support offered by the Jobcentre. As it was a rather unusual vacancy they encouraged me to take part in the work trial scheme and explained how they could help by matching candidates with relevant skills. This proved ideal as although James didn’t have relevant experience I could see he really took to the work."

Prior to the work trial James hadn’t previously considered an agricultural career and had been unemployed since leaving school last year.

James said:

"The responsibility of caring for such delicate chicks was a bit daunting at first and I didn’t really know what to expect. The work trial opportunity was great as it let me get a feel for the work and show that I was suited to it.

"I’m really enjoying the work. It’s not just about the hatching, I also help out around the farm. David is really flexible about my hours too so I’m able to fit my duties around other commitments."