Archie Aston, a young apprentice from Stockdalewath, near Carlisle, has clinched the Trade Apprentice of the Year Award.

The 18-year-old, employed with Penrith-based branding specialists Ast since September 2022, achieved this significant recognition at the British Printing Industries Federation 2023 Apprenticeship Awards on November 10, held in London.

The cerebral palsy fighter also secured the runner-up position in the overall Apprentice of the Year Award.

Regarded by his colleagues as a 'character' who is 'resilient', 'motivated#, 'dedicated', 'courageous' and 'loyal', Archie conquers the daily challenges posed by his condition, not letting anything get in his way.

The award process honours apprentices who showcase hard work, dedication, and innovation.

In the Trade Apprentice of the Year category, Archie demonstrated exemplary technical skill and innovation.

Archie expressed his pride and honour upon winning the prestigious award, highlighting the importance of diligent work.

He said: “It is an honour to win such a prestigious national award and I am very, very proud. I work hard and it’s important to me to do a good job, so it’s nice to have my efforts rewarded like this.”

Ast's Managing Director, Mark Aston, sang his praises, noting Archie's dependability and hard-working nature.

He said: “Archie’s become a loved and valued member of our team since he joined us last year. He takes his work and his responsibility to his colleagues very seriously and has proved himself to be dependable and hard working - qualities we respect and are keen to nurture.

"We are all very proud of him and look forward to watching what he does next.”