Oxford has been highlighted as one of the top cities in England for apprenticeships by a new report.

The study by Best Apprenticeships, a resource for apprenticeship opportunities, found Oxford offered some of the most competitive apprenticeship wages.

The report analysed data from the gov.uk 'Find an Apprenticeship' service over the summer, looking at nearly 30,000 roles across England.

It found Oxford ranked alongside Birmingham, Manchester and Bristol as one of the leading cities in England for well-paid apprenticeship opportunities.

More than three quarters of roles in the city pay above minimum wage, which is significantly higher than the national average of 60 per cent.

It is also in the top three cities offering the most roles with salaries above the real living wage of £12 per hour.

Its apprenticeship market is particularly strong in sectors such as engineering and manufacturing, health and science and catering and hospitality.

While Oxford excels, the report revealed a more challenging environment in other parts of the country.

Areas like Blackpool, Canterbury and the London Borough of Sutton are struggling with both low pay and a lack of available opportunities, making them some of the least favourable places for apprentices in England.

Nationwide, the study offers a positive outlook, researchers said, but it also highlighted only 3.6 per cent of apprenticeships are currently offering pay above the real living wage.