THE hard work of North-East students is being recognised by an engineering firm.

Car parts maker ElringKlinger (GB) is sponsoring a prize fund for Teesside University Batchelor of Engineering graduates.

The prizes, totalling £550, will be awarded to the top four students in thermodynamics and heat transfer, manufacturing processes, mechanics of materials, and an interdisciplinary project.

ElringKlinger, in Redcar, is renowned for supplying its speciality gaskets to the likes of Lotus and Bentley, and has previously take on undergraduates from the university.

Ian Malcolm, managing director, said: “Education and skills are high up on our agenda and we continue to support the need for promoting engineering as a career to bridge the skills gap.

“It's always encouraging to see young people taking an interest and actively pursuing a career in the sector.

“Equipping students with skills needed to establish themselves for a successful engineering future is something we hope to build on through our relationship with the university.”

Jessica Turner, the university's corporate and alumni relations officer, added: “We are extremely grateful to ElringKlinger for this generous prize fund, which will open up new opportunities for the winners.”