A FORMER Cleveland Bridge apprentice has been named one of the top 100 most inspirational people in UK manufacturing.

Liam Simpson, who recently completed his apprenticeship at the Darlington-based company and is now working in the Quality Department, has been announced as a member of The Manufacturer Top 100 2018.

The listing is run by The Manufacturer magazine, in partnership with Cranfield University, one of the country’s leading centres for business education. Now in its fifth year, it recognises the most dynamic leaders and innovators in manufacturing.

The 22-year-old said: “I was very surprised, but really proud to be named in the Top 100. To make the list alongside some far more experienced people is great and shows how important apprenticeships are to the manufacturing industry.

"I hope that I can help inspire more young people to get into manufacturing and they receive the same support I have had from Cleveland Bridge.”

Chris Droogan, managing director, said: “Liam is an excellent example of the quality of apprentices we have at Cleveland Bridge who will be at the heart of our workforce for years to come.”