AN AWARD-WINNING retailer has been hailed by borough MP Andrew Miller as the type of young person who will be key to the future economic success of Ellesmere Port.
Jonathan Rose, 19, who is a supervisor at TM Lewin, scooped an impressive four accolades at a joint presentation ceremony between Cheshire Oaks Retail Academy (CORA) and West Cheshire College.
The teenager from Stanney Oaks was also named Retail Student of the Year at the college’s own annual awards ceremony.
Mr Miller said: “It is young people like Jonathan who will drive our economy into the black again through providing the skills needed for successful businesses.
“These are challenging times but training must continue. People like Jonathan should be proud and carry on.”
Jonathan joined TM Lewin three years ago and jumped at the chance to undergo training, which has recently seen him land a supervisor’s post.
He said: “It’s been an ideal route for me. I liked the style of learning because it was relevant to me and I enjoy my work. I’m planning to continue because I’d like to reach the CORA gold standard award.
“I have a real sense of achievement and I am determined to continue.”
CORA was founded in conjunction with Cheshire Oaks developers McArthur Glen, West Cheshire College, JobCentre Plus, Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet Village and the borough council, and retailers, who aim to ensure local people have the skills needed to provide a trained and motivated pool of staff for the retail outlet.
Mr Miller added: “CORA developed as a germ of an idea because a group of us were concerned that although the Cheshire Oaks development was wonderful news for the area, it was essential local people could provide the workforce needed to fill the jobs.
