A TRAINEE carpenter from Northwich has nailed the runner-up spot in the Apprentice of the Year awards.

Kingsmead resident Chris Southern was presented with a £100 prize to mark his achievement after winning the runner-spot in painting and maintenance specialist Seddon Property Services’ awards.

The 19-year-old, who originally joined Seddon as an apprentice in 2010, is now starting his advanced NVQ Level 3 carpentry and joinery qualification with the firm’s support.

As well as learning practical skills working on site, Chris is also on day-release at Mid Cheshire College.

“Being an apprentice with Seddon has allowed me to earn while I’m learning my trade,” said Chris.

“The training has been very good. I enjoy what I do and the fact that I’m often doing something different every day. It’s inspiring to see how many of the company’s senior managers started out as apprentices – it shows the kind of opportunities there are to stay with the company and work your way up.

Seddon’s site supervisor, Shaun Clewes, said: “Chris has made the most of every training opportunity offered to him throughout his apprenticeship.

“He takes great pride in his work and is always looking to enhance his skills and learn all aspects of maintenance.”