Ian Duncan Smith has praised the next generation of 'confident' young people to have completed work experience at Marks & Spencers.

The popular department store have a Make Your Mark scheme, which gives 16 to 25-year-olds with no education, training or employment, a placement at the company.

The youngsters complete a month-long course receiving support to improve CV writing, team work and customer service skills.

The Chingford and Woodford Green MP was on hand to present the certificates at a graduation ceremony in the Best Western Hotel, Oak Hill, Woodford Green, on Friday (November 6) .

He said: “The young people I met today should be proud of what a fantastic achievement they have made and with job offers at M&S, they are now set to enter the world of work.

“I would encourage young people to be aware of this programme as a great way to gain some work experience, boost confidence and improve their employability.

“This programme is an example of how inspiration, motivation and mentoring is vital to helping young people into the labour market, as well as highlighting the variety opportunities in the retail industry.”

The programme is run with help from The Prince's Trust.