A Preston-born apprentice has been named as the best in the North West.

Daniel Blake, 23, won the mechanical engineering apprentice of the year and overall apprentice of the year at the Alliance Learning Awards.

Working for packaging company TrakRap he impressed the judges with his high standard of academic achievements and progression in his role.

Danny said: “I put my success down to hard work and determination.”

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Operations director for the Bolton-based firm David Robinson said: “We’ve always championed apprenticeships, so it’s incredibly satisfying to see one of our apprentices being rewarded for their hard work and setting the standard for others to follow.

“We believe that one of the most effective ways to ensure the next generation of manufacturers have the skills to match the needs of the industry is to give them the opportunity to learn on the job. Danny grabbed his opportunity with both hands and his work ethic and passion for engineering have led to him being recognised for these awards.

“Needless to say we’re absolutely thrilled for him and, if other apprentices in the sector are up to Danny’s standard, the future of manufacturing will be in safe hands.”