A KIDDERMINSTER scaffolder has been named Apprentice of the Year in the Midlands by the National Construction College (NCC).

Charlie Holloway received the accolade in recognition of his work with GMK Scaff-Form, a family-run business based in Kidderminster. He also won the scaffolding year two category.

The 22-year-old apprentice, who received his two prizes at a ceremony in Birmingham, said: “I am absolutely delighted to get these awards. My apprenticeship has been a lot of hard work but it has been worth it.

“I have learnt so much during the course but I am eager to keep on learning and to get better all the time.

“I am looking forward to working my way through the ranks at GMK while also completing the NCC’s advanced scaffolding course.

“I could not have won these awards without the support and training of the college and my employer.”

Darren Keen, one of the directors at GMK Scaff-Form, said: “Charlie has achieved so much in such a short amount of time and it proves that apprenticeships can work if the young people involved have the right attitudes.

“GMK is really proud of Charlie’s success and he has performed his duties with us admirably.”

The NCC awards are run annually to bring together companies and trainers to celebrate the hard work of apprentices around the UK.

Andy Walder, principal of NCC, said: “We are passionate about what we do as a college and about recognising and celebrating success.

“Today is all about acclaiming those apprentices, such as Charlie, who have achieved outstanding results and demonstrated real commitment in kick-starting their careers in construction.

“It is the achievements of these young people, along with the experience, knowledge and total commitment of our staff, that make me incredibly proud to be principal of the NCC.”