DAY release student Scott Baker is forging a name for himself in the sheet metal world after picking up a regional award.

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

Mr Baker, of Trimdon Village, County Durham, said: "The award was based on my exam results over the past two years, which have all been credits and distinctions."

Mr Baker is a sheet metal worker with Darchem Engineering, of Stillington, but attends the college's Advanced Manufacturing Centre one day a week to study.

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

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

Mr Baker has been invited to the institute's annual dinner at the Swallow Hotel, Stockton, on April 4.