A FERRYHILL A-level pupil has won a car as part of a scheme designed to encourage more youngsters to continue their education after the age of 16.

Andrew Wing has won a Smart Car and a package of BSM driving lessons as part of the Connexions Card scheme and is the first Connexions Card web site winner since it was launched nationally.

After exchanging his attendance record for points, Andrew had the chance to redeem them for rewards via his own personalised area on the web site, www.connexionscard.com.

Rewards available include working with a Premier football club or obtaining backstage passes to Travis gigs.

On this occasion, Andrew entered a prize draw to win a Smart Car and 35 hours of driving lessons from BSM.

Connexions Card aims to encourage pupils to stay in post-16 education and training by offering rewards to support their participation in learning.

Following a recent national launch, the card is now available to all 16 to 19-year-olds throughout England.

The card also offers discounts at a variety of high-street retailers.

John Warwick, marketing director of Connexions Card, said: "There's no doubt that the Connexions Card has been offering young people throughout the North-East some fantastic opportunities.

"We are delighted to help to put Andrew on the road to further success."