AN exciting regeneration of much loved maritime district Stanley Dock has helped employ four people in Wirral.

Titanic Hotel Liverpool, which opened on Monday, constructed a "Pioneer Programme" to help unemployed people in Wirral get back to work.

The team behind the multi-million pound regeneration project held training sessions at Liverpool City College, masterclasses and presentations to show the skills needed for various roles in the hotel.

Four talented staff members from Wirral area including Benjamin Dutton, from Wallasey, Jason Windrow, from Birkenhead and Stephen Edge from Rock Ferry. They succeeded as "Pioneers" and now work across various departments within the hotel.

Matthew Proctor, 19 from Manor Drive in Birkenhead, said: “When I heard about the ‘Pioneer Programme’ I jumped at the chance to take part. For young adults there are not many employers that voluntarily help you to get onto the right path and make a real difference to your skill set.

“When I completed the programme I was offered a front of house position and I couldn't be happier.

“Not only am I part of a new and exciting project in the city, I am learning from some of the best people in the industry. If the ‘Pioneer Programme’ didn't exist then I wouldn't be where I am today and for that I am very grateful.”

The course ran for four weeks and candidates were given two weeks classroom training followed by "T" Factor presentations in the style of the X Factor auditions. After a final week of classroom training all candidates qualified for a certificate.

Christine Henney, HR director of Titanic Hotel Liverpool said: “When we began to bring the regeneration of Stanley Dock to life we thought it would be fantastic to honour our ancestors by offering jobs to people in and around Merseyside.

“Although someone may not have skills in customer service for example does not mean they are not capable. We wanted to hold a number of different training sessions to give those who are currently unemployed equal opportunities to those who have the desired skill sets.

“It was great to see the passion and determination our candidates had throughout training and it is even better now to be working alongside them.”

For more information about Titanic Hotel Liverpool, the "Pioneer Programme" and bookings visit titanichotelliverpool.com