AN apprentice who worked his way up from customer service consultant to branch manager has been named Overall Winner in an awards ceremony recognising the efforts of apprentices and employers.

Alex Robson, who also scooped Level 3 Apprentice of the Year, won after his bosses at Darlington Building Society described him as having a “transformational” impact on the company’s performance.

He said: “I am privileged to have won two awards on a fantastic evening celebrating the successes of local apprentices.

“Middlesbrough College and Northern Skills Group’s apprentice programme, alongside a strong culture of ‘growing our own’ at Darlington Building Society, has helped me to develop in my career and achieve my aspirations of becoming a manager.”

Megan Kerr was named Level 2 Apprentice of the Year for her “remarkable” work in mental health at West Park Hospital, Darlington.

Zoe Lewis, principal and chief executive of Middlesbrough College, said: “The awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the impact apprenticeships have on our region’s prosperity – and recognise those who help make them a success.

“Apprenticeships give people of all ages and backgrounds the opportunity to get into new careers and I’m delighted to hear so many success stories from the apprentices and employers we work with.”