UK Deputy Prime Minister Opens WorldSkills London 2011

Deputy Prime Minster, Nick Clegg MP, officially welcomed around 1,000 Competitors from around the world to WorldSkills London 2011 on Tuesday 4th October 2011 at the O2 Arena.

The opening ceremony marked the start of the greatest skills Competition, jobs and careers event in the UK's history and featured performances from young people across the country.  The Competition itself will take place at ExCeL London from 5th-8th October and feature young people competing to be the best of the best in 46 skills Competitions. Team UK is entering its largest ever team, with 43 Competitors competing in 38 skills.

Aidan Jones, chief executive of WorldSkills London 2011 said:

"It's an honour to welcome the Deputy Prime Minister to the opening ceremony for WorldSkills London 2011. There has never been a more important time to show the UK that skills shape our world and that the future success of Britain's businesses depend on a highly skilled workforce.  We hope that WorldSkills London will demonstrate to the world how talented young British people are."

Parents and young people interested in attending WorldSkills London 2011 can book free tickets at www.worldskillslondon2011.com