Leicester West MP Liz Kendall today sends out a rallying cry to city and county businesses – we need you.

Her call comes as the Leicester Mercury and Leicester College redouble their efforts to provide 100 apprenticeships in 100 days.

Ms Kendall said: "I'm urging businesses to seize the chance apprenticeships provide to help them grow and succeed.

"The businesses I've spoken to say apprenticeships are a brilliant way to create the workforce they need. "They provide on the job training so companies get the practical skills as well as knowledge that make a difference to 'the bottom line'.

"I think apprenticeships are vital to the success of businesses and our economy as a whole. That's why I'm championing the Leicester Mercury's campaign for 100 apprenticeships in 100 days.

"We need you – business leaders of Leicester and Leicestershire to get behind this and take on an apprentice."

The Mercury and Leicester College want to hear from people aged 16 to 65 who are looking for valuable work experience and from companies that can offer an apprenticeship.

So far, more than 900 enthusiastic would-be apprentices have come forward, along with 39 companies since the challenge was launched a month ago.

But more firms are needed to take on potential apprentices.

Ms Kendall's call comes as National Apprenticeship Week gets underway.

The Labour MP will be at Leicester College to talk to potential apprentices this week.

Businesses would be supported through the entire process by Leicester College staff.

Martin Traynor, managing director of Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce, said there was no better time to take on an apprentice.

"In the last two quarters of 2010, the Leicester and Leicestershire economy really started to recover, led primarily by the very strong performance of our manufacturing sector," he said.

"As the recovery continues, the old spectre of skills shortages has again raised its head. "Therefore, now more than ever, companies must invest in developing their workforce. Taking apprentices on has to be a part of the solution."

Leicester College said the campaign has got off to a flying start but there's more to do.

Keith Whittaker, deputy principal at Leicester College, said: "The Apprenticeship Challenge is an amazing opportunity for employers. We need businesses to step up and lend us their support."

Business Secretary Vince Cable today marked the start of National Apprenticeship Week by underlining the Government's commitment to increase the budget for apprenticeships to over £1,400 million in 2011-12.

Dr Cable said investment in training the next generation of highly skilled workers would be key to sustainable economic growth.

How to get involved

Apprentices: We are looking for 100 people aged between 16 and 65 who want to improve their job prospects by gaining practical experience in an area of work they are interested in.

Apprentices will be mentored by Leicester College.

Companies: We want to hear from companies of all sizes, in all fields, which can offer hands-on experience to one or more apprentices.

Firms that come forward will be supported by Leicester College throughout the process.

Get in touch: Employers interested in taking on an apprentice should call 0116 224 2240. They can also go to one of the websites below.

Prospective apprentices should e-mail: info@leicestercollege.ac.uk

Alternatively, see one of the following websites:

www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/apprenticeships

www.leicestercollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships/