IMPROVED cheese-making in the Yorkshire Dales has been named among the industries driving the UK’s economic growth, in a new report.

New "capitals of industry" have emerged in recent years, ranging from an offshore wind farm at Blyth, Northumberland, to a growth in luxury yacht building on the South Coast.

The report was published ahead of Colleges Week from next Monday, aimed at highlighting the role colleges play in providing skills training.

Pat Bacon, president of the Association of Colleges, said: "Colleges are at the heart of their communities, creating skills and opportunities for individuals and businesses.

"The new capitals of industry highlight the business hotspots which are meeting the challenges of the recession and ensuring the country’s economic competitiveness."

Specialist courses are being set up in colleges in response to the growth in industries ranging from wind and wave power to digital media, said the report.