Apprentices are being sought for the Ayrshire Modern Apprenticeship Community Challenge (MACC).

Registration has opened for companies to put forward individuals or a team of modern apprentices to come up with a project that will benefit the local community.

Now in its 15th year, the process will go on throughout the year and end in a finale event during Ayrshire Business Week in October.

There are four different categories: best overall project, developing the young workforce, most innovative idea and best presentation.

S&C Engineering Services was the overall winner in 2017.

Natalie MacKenzie, their business support leader, said: "2017 was the first year our apprentices took part in the MACC.

"They really enjoyed developing their skills and learning how a business functions, all while doing something worthwhile for elderly residents in a local care home.

"When the apprentices installed the finished project and saw the residents benefiting from what they had designed and manufactured, it gave them a great deal of pride and confidence in their ability to progress their skills further."

Businesses have until March 9 to nominate their chosen individuals or teams.