More than 30 MPs have joined a campaign to inspire the next generation of engineers.

The politicians have pledged to support the Year of Engineering, which aims to get young people across the UK into the industry and tackle a major skills gap.

The move will see government work with hundreds of industry partners to raise the profile of engineering amongst young people and offer from behind the scenes tours of projects, family days out, school visits and the chance to meet important figures from the sector.

MPs have also pledged to connect schools with local engineering employers and encouraged businesses to take part in open doors events for schools and families.

John Hayes, Minister for the Year of Engineering and Transport Skills Minister, said: “New skills, new jobs and new prospects will turn vision to reality, if we show young people, their parents and their teachers what engineering can mean: a career in engineering offers creativity, variety, the chance to innovate and so make a real difference.”

The UK energy infrastructure boom could be risked by a shortage of skills, such as engineering roles.