Apprentice Michael Dell

A teenager has become the first apprentice to join MG since the famous car maker relaunched under new Chinese ownership.

Michael Dell, aged 18, is now well into his first year working in the sales and marketing division at the firm’s historic Longbridge site – and is helping prepare the launch of MG’s first all new car for 15 years.

Michael, from Castle Road West, near Bearwood, said: “I was thrilled to be selected to be MG’s first new apprentice and am really enjoying my work.

“It’s my dream job. It’s so exciting to be working on the launch of an all new MG.”

MG Motor UK is investing millions as it bids to establish a foothold in the European car market.

And investing in people is a priority for the company as it plans for a range of new models over the next decade.

The company has therefore expanded its training companies and has started taking on apprentices like Michael.

HR manager Louise Lane said: “Apprenticeships are the lifeblood of the future of a company and we are really pleased to have launched a new programme.”

Michael used his initiative to secure his job while studying a public services course at Halesowen College. After seeing the post advertised on the apprenticeships.org.uk website, he applied for it and was accepted.

He then had to decide to quit his college course, just two months before his exams. He said: “It was quite a big decision but my dad has supported me all the way,”

Michael, who does not yet drive, faces quite a trek to get himself to work on time. He needs to be up at 6am and has to catch six buses a day to get to and from work.

But he said the routine is worth it to get a foothold in the West Midlands car industry, adding: “I don’t mind. I’ve got used to it now.”

There are now around 400 workers at Longbridge preparing for the launch of the MG6 in the New Year.

The car will be unveiled in its finished right-hand format at the MPH Show featuring Top Gear Live next month.

MG will also premiere its forthcoming global supermini, the MG Zero, which will form the basis of the smaller model range.