An apprentice from East Lancashire has won an apprentice of the year award at a regional ceremony.

Michal Halamicek, from Barrowford, was crowned winner of the Intermediate Apprentice of the Year, at the North West ceremony of the National Apprenticeship Awards, which took place at the Titanic Hotel in Liverpool on Wednesday.

Now in their 16th year, the National Apprenticeship Awards showcase the diverse and growing range of sectors engaged with apprenticeships, whilst celebrating the achievements of outstanding apprentices, apprentice employers and individuals.

Mr Halamicek, 30, is a Quality Controller at acdc, the global specialists in architectural LED lighting.

Through his win he now feels motivated to become a fully qualified Electrical Engineer and work in compliance in the future.

Through his apprenticeship Mr Halamicek has gained a range of different skills with his biggest achievement overcoming his fear of heights by working on the roof of Tottenham Hotspur’s new £1billion football stadium.

Mr Halamicek, said: "I’m absolutely surprised – everyone that was nominated did so well – it means a lot to me, and that my hard work has paid off.

"My apprenticeship is teaching me skills that I’m able to use every day at work and it will have a massive influence on my future.

"People should start thinking differently about apprenticeships – it’s not just a job, it’s education at the same time."

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Huge congratulations to all of the regional winners. Apprenticeships change lives, improve businesses and support local communities, so it’s great to see such a diverse range of employers and apprentices being recognised for their great work.

"I wish them all the best of luck for the final award ceremony in November.”

Mr Halamicek now goes through to the national final, which takes place in London on November 27.