ANY Swindon school-leavers enthralled by the town's proud railway history have been offered a fast-track way of taking up a career in railway engineering.

Just over 20 years ago Brunel's Great Western Works were still turning out top-quality engines and carriages, as they had done for more than 100 years.

Now Network Rail, which has offices in Swindon, has developed a foundation degree course to bring high-calibre staff back into the industry.

The first full-time course at Sheffield Hallam University starts in September this year.

Network Rail bosses say it will provide a direct route into a railway engineering career, a professional qualification from the foundation course that can be turned into a Bachelor of Engineering honours degree with another year of study.

There is also an income of £7,000 each year during study.

Seven months of the year is spent at university and the other five on relevant paid work experience placements.

Students receive a bursary of £1,200 and during the work experience are paid £14,000 a year pro rata.

Network Rail's education engineer Nigel Ward said: "During the next five years £26 billion will be invested in the rail network that's £14 million every day which will be spent rebuilding Britain's railway.

"We need the most talented, high calibre people to join us for a career in engineering.

"This course is the ideal opportunity to join the rail industry and get paid to study.

"Contact us now if you are looking for an exciting and rewarding career on the railway."

To find out more about the courses call 0114 225 3478 or email eng-marketing@shu.ac.uk.