DAY-RELEASE student Scott Baker is forging a name for himself in the sheet-metal world after winning a regional award.

Scott, 19, who is taking a three-year City and Guilds certificate at Darlington College of Technology, beat opposition from colleges and training schemes in the Teesside area to win the Welding Institute's Fabrication and Welding Award.

"I was really pleased to get it," said Scott, from Trimdon Village.

"The award was based on my exam results over the past two years, which have all been credits and distinctions."

The youngster is a sheet-metal worker with Darchem Engineering, in Stillington, but attends the college's Advanced Manufacturing Centre one day a week to study for his City and Guilds 229.

"I have always enjoyed making things and went into engineering from school as I like working with my hands," he said.

"Hopefully, the new orders for Navy ships will see the demand for welders increase."

His college tutor, engineering lecturer Dave Pengilley, was delighted with Scott's achievement.

He said: "He is very conscientious, has a 100 per cent attendance record, works very hard and is a credit to his company and this college."

On top of a £25 cash prize and a certificate, Scott has also been invited to the Welding Institute's annual dinner at the Swallow Hotel, Stockton, on April 4.