A YOUNG housing association employee has been recognised as ‘one to watch’ in the future after winning a regional award.

Ben Watson was named winner of the Rising Star award at the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) North East Celebrating the Region Awards.

The 21-year-old joined north Durham housing provider Derwentside Homes as an apprentice in 2012 and has quickly risen through the ranks, being promoted to tenancy income officer last year.

Mr Watson said: “Just being shortlisted was an honour so to find out I’d won was amazing.

“I’d never really considered a career in housing but I saw the apprenticeship and thought it looked interesting and now I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else.

“I love every minute of my job and have been given some great opportunities by Derwentside Homes. This is definitely just the start for me.”

His enthusiasm and aptitude for the job have resulted in a 5.7 per cent reduction in rent arrears in his area and won him the respect of his colleagues and customers.

Alan Tubman, tenancy income manager at Derwentside Homes, said: “Ben has shown real enthusiasm, promise and determination to continuous service delivery and improvement.

“His determination has enabled him to reduce the level of arrears he is responsible for despite the effects of welfare reform and increasing debt.

“He’s a real asset to the company and I’m confident that he will have a successful career in housing.”