Two apprentices from Chester have been named winners at this year’s EEF/Aldermore Future Manufacturing Awards.

Peter Webster, an Airbus Operations apprentice, aged 30 from Chester, won the Outstanding Second Year Apprentice Award, while Sion Lloyd, a JCB apprentice aged 21 from Dodleston, won the Outstanding Third Year Apprentice Award.

Also recognised was Paul Jones, another Airbus Operations apprentice, aged 30 from Blacon, who was runner-up for the Outstanding Third Year Apprentice Award.

National Director EEF Wales Paul Byard, apprentice Paul Jones, Airbus Operations Ltd and Graham Wood from category partner, JAM Recruitment

They beat off competition from nine other apprentices from across the region after impressing judges with their dedication to their apprenticeships and determination to pursue careers in manufacturing.

Airbus Operations apprentice Peter Webster, says: “I’m so pleased to have got this far. It’s a great feeling to be recognised in this way for doing something I genuinely enjoy and that is setting me up for life. I’m only at the very start of my career in manufacturing and already it is proving to be both rewarding and challenging in equal measure.”

National Director EEF Wales Paul Byard, , apprentice Peter Webster, Airbus Operations Ltd and Graham Wood from category partner, JAM Recruitment

JCB apprentice Sion Lloyd, says: “It’s great to have had my dedication and determination recognised in this way. I hope my success encourages other apprentices to enter these awards, and other young people to seriously consider becoming an apprentice too.”

CEO of JAM Recruitment John Morris says: “These apprentices undoubtedly deserve this recognition. They blew judges away with their dedication, determination and drive and should be congratulated for doing so well, especially when up against other such highly talented and inspiring contenders.

“Apprentices are the lifeblood of our sector and have a vital role to play in the future of UK engineering and manufacturing. It’s great to see the efforts of Chester’s ambitious young apprentices being recognised and I wish them the best of luck in their future careers.”