A SEARCH has begun to find the four top bosses in Yorkshire who provide the very best practical training for young people.

Edge, a new charity that aims to change attitudes towards practical learning, has launched the Edge Employer Awards.

Winning regional organisations will get the chance to win big cash prizes to be re-invested in work-related learning such as apprenticeships or work placements for 14 - 25 year olds.

One large Yorkshire organisation will win £10,000, one medium-sized firm will get £5,000 and £2,500 will be awarded to each of the best two small ventures in the county

All will be shortlisted to compete against nine other regional finalists in England for massive prizes - £200,000 for the best large organisation, £50,000 for the top medium sized business and £25,000 for each of the finest two small ventures.

Garry Hawkes, chairman of Edge, said: "Many excellent employers believe in providing great work experiene and training for young people and we intend to reward the best.

For more information go to www.edgeawards.co.uk or phone 0800 9803343.

Updated: 10:26 Tuesday, February 22, 2005