THE country's first women-only automotive paint course was held on Thursday in a bid to encourage more women into the motor industry.

Six mechanics-in-the-making learned the basics of bodywork at Southgate College, along with Enfield North MP Nick de Bois.

The course, which cost £300 per person, was launched with and sponsored by IMI, the Institute of the Motor Industry.

David Byrne, college Principal and Chief Executive, said: "Women make up only about two per cent of people in the automotive paint industry but it offers them really good career opportunities. Research shows that a lot of women feel more comfortable receiving quotes from women mechanics because they don't feel they are going to get ripped off.

"The skills they learned are also transferable for things like automotive artistry. The idea is come and have a go."

Mr de Bois said: "What appealed to me about this course was that it was an example of a college and a business coming together and doing something which there is obviously a market for."

Southgate College, which also runs mechanics and motor vehicle engineering courses, is to open a pinoeering car repairs centre next February in Enfield Retail Park.

The service, provided by college apprentices, allows for repair of a specific part of the bodywork, avoiding the need for a complete panel or wing to be replaced.