RAF Cosford worker Laura named as best of British apprentices
A Shropshire woman who works as a carpenter at RAF Cosford has been named as Britain's best apprentice at a glitzy awards ceremony.
Laura Pringle, from Telford, picked up the Pearson Intermediate Apprentice of the Year award in the National Apprenticeship Awards last Wednesday at Birmingham's NEC.
Laura, who works as an apprentice aircraft carpenter at the Royal Air Force Museum in Cosford, was selected for the top prize from among hundreds of other apprentices around the country.
The 20-year-old said: "I am overwhelmed with excitement and seeing the pride on my mum's face when I told her has made all the effort worthwhile. I'd highly recommend the apprenticeship route to others."
The National Apprenticeship Awards, run by the National Apprenticeship Service, recognise the nation's top apprentices who have made outstanding contributions to their workplace as well as demonstrating commitment to their own professional development.
Laura began working at the museum in August 2010. She is the museum's only apprentice aircraft carpenter, working on the restoration of pre-World War One wooden aircraft. She was chosen as the winner in recognition of her dedication to her training and her commitment to inspiring other youngsters to careers in aeronautics and technology by hosting school groups at the museum.
David Way, chief executive of the National Apprenticeship Service, said: "Laura's exceptional achievements make for a worthy winner."
