A SET of talented apprentices have been shortlisted for a prestigious regional apprentice award.

Connor Duncan, 20, who works for Hope Construction, Matthew Billingham, 21, who works for Romag, and Adisorn Khampan, 19 and Martin Clutterbuck, 23, who both work for Arlington Automotive, have all been nominated for an EEF First Year Apprentice Award - sponsored by Siemens.

The apprentices, who study with East Durham College, impressed the judges with their hard work on their apprenticeships and determination to pursue a career in manufacturing. They make up four of the final six shortlisted apprentices from across the region.

The winner will be named at a ceremony at the Pavilions of Harrogate tomorrow (Thursday) night. The national winner will be announced next year.

This is the second year in a row that East Durham College have had an apprentice who studies with the college nominated for the award, after Peterlee’s AKS Ball employee James Faulks won the regional title last year.

One of the apprentices nominated, Connor Duncan is proud to have been nominated for an award and is looking forward to the final ceremony.

He said: “It’s an honour to have been shortlisted for this award.

“I know how hard-working and dedicated each and every apprentice is, so I am delighted to have been recognised in this way.

“I am still in the early stages of my career, but my apprenticeship has opened doors and I can see a clear career path working in a sector that I enjoy and where I feel my skills are valued.

“I hope that other young people see this and are inspired to take up an apprenticeship in manufacturing too.”

East Durham College, apprenticeship trainer and assessor, Dion Bowes, added: “I am really proud to see four of our apprentices nominated for this award.

“They are fantastic employees with all being praised highly by their employers during their time with the companies.

“It’s also great for the college to see another set of students up for this award for the second year running.

For more information on Apprenticeships through East Durham College, either as an apprentice learner or as an employer, contact the team on 0191-518 8259.