AN award-winning apprentice from Grappenhall Heys has once again topped the charts after picking up a top prize at a prestigious awards ceremony.

Former Warrington Collegiate student Ashley Terron fought off tough competition to be announced as the winner of the City and Guilds award for the apprenticeship champion of the year category.

The National Apprenticeship Awards, which were held at The Monastery Manchester on September 16, recognise excellence in businesses that grow their own talent with apprentices as well as apprentices who have made a significant contribution to their workplaces.

Ashley, who works at Redrow Group Services Ltd, said he was delighted to be crowned the winner.

He added: "Following this award and being crowned The World’s Best Young Bricklayer at the 2013 Worldskills finals in Leipzig, Germany, I hope to inspire and motivate other apprentices to go on and fulfil their own potential.”

Ashley has now been entered into a final judging stage where winners will feature in the acclaimed top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list

Speaking after the ceremony, skills minister Nick Boles said: “Apprenticeships continue to grow in popularity, and events like the National Apprenticeship Awards showcase how beneficial they are to both employers and individuals.

"It is fast becoming the norm for young people to choose between an Apprenticeship or university as a route to a great career."