Want to be a journalist working with ITV West Country? Apply to our Breaking Into News scheme

The search for the next generation of diverse broadcast journalism talent has been launched.

The Breaking Into News initiative, which is now in its seventh year, aims to attract budding broadcasters to apply for a unique opportunity.

People living in the West Country region interested in journalism, but who may have little to no relevant experience in the industry and may have recently finished education are being urged to apply.

Breaking Into News is a scheme run by ITV News and the Media Trust in which one of 10 finalist places across ITV's regional news programmes.

The successful ITV West Country candidate will be paired with Production Journalist Ashna Hurynag, who will mentor them over the course of six weeks on all aspects of the job - from writing to production.

This is Ashna's second year as a mentor.

Each finalist will produce a news piece and the overall winner will win £400 worth of journalistic equipment and the chance to have their local news report aired on TV.

The overall winner will be revealed on July 25 at an award ceremony in London.

The competition is now open for applications via www.breakingintonews.co.uk.

The closing date is April 9.