AWARD-winning Peter Carson has nurtured a blossoming career at a North-west garden centre.

Mr Carson, aged 21, from Leigh, is employed as warehouse team leader at Bents Garden Centre in Glazebury.

He started part time work with the company at the age of 17, and has since completed NVQ qualifications with Horwich-based Alliance Learning.

Mr Carson said: "I asked if there was any training I could do to help further my career because I want to make it to the top with Bents."

He went on to complete NVQs in warehousing, customer service and plant operations and was named Apprentice of the Year in Retail and Warehousing at Alliance Learnings annual awards ceremony.

He said: "It was a very proud moment. My mum and dad were there and I had a night to remember."