AN apprentice at a construction firm has been recognised as being at the top of his trade.

Robert Harte, of Woodford Green, has been honoured at the National Construction College East annual apprentice awards.

Mr Harte, 31, achieved the Top Formwork Apprentice award at the prestigious ceremony which took place at the College in Kings Lynn, Norfolk.

Mr Harte, who works for A J Morrisroe & Sons Ltd, was one of 17 students recognised at the ceremony, organised by the National Construction College (NCC) - the biggest construction training provider in Europe.

The awards, which are in their eleventh year, celebrate the achievements of the colleges’ apprentices.

Guest speaker at the ceremony was Olympic medallist Kriss Akabusi, who told the audience about his rise to success, through his career as an outstanding sportsman, television personality, businessman and charity founder.

Chris Barrett, National Construction College East centre manager, said: “Apprentices are the life blood of our industry and it is essential that we ensure excellent training and support is available to these bright and enthusiastic recruits who want to be part of our industry.

"We are very proud of our students and what they have achieved. These awards are a great way of celebrating this and set a benchmark for other trainees, as well as making their employers proud.”