MORE than 300 individuals and employers from across Worcestershire gathered for an evening of celebration and recognition for the county’s apprentices.

At the inaugural Worcestershire Apprentice Awards event, held at the West Midland Safari Park, six apprentices, five employers and one school picked up a prize.

Wyre Forest winners included furniture hire store Concept Furniture which was named Apprenticeship Employer of the Year for a Medium Business, and GMK Scaffolding’s apprentice Charlie Holloway who won Intermediate Level Apprentice of the Year.

The 22-year-old Kidderminster man has had a very successful year as he was also named the National Construction College (NCC) Scaffolding Apprentice of the Year winner in September.

Awards were presented by BBC’s The Apprentice star Nick Hewer for categories including School of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award and Worcestershire Apprentice of the Year.

The awards are an initiative from Worcestershire.Business.Central and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership.

Gary Woodman, executive director for Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “Congratulations to the young people, schools and businesses that have been recognised for their achievements.

“We hope others will follow the lead of the many organisations that are benefitting from having apprentices as part of their workforce.”

Worcestershire County Councillor Simon Geraghty, cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure, said: “The winners represent a variety of skills and sectors, and showcase the diverse range of apprenticeships the region offers.

“Well done to all of the winners.”