A campaign to encourage 16 to 19-year-olds into nursing has been launched by health trusts in Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

The nurse cadet scheme is being promoted locally by Bath's Royal United Hospital, Chippenham Community Hospital and the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases, in Bath.

The two-year course starts in January and will provide an opportunity to develop care skills to NVQ Level 3 with the possibility of studying for a diploma of Higher Education.

Nursing cadets will spend part of their time within the work environment as well as in the classroom.