A BUDDING construction worker from Bolton has landed the title of Apprentice of the Year at the firm he works for.

Daniel Holt was named as national construction firm Seddon’s top apprentice for the past year, beating off competition from apprentices from across the country.

The young bricklayer received his awards at a bash in Salford attended by dignitaries including the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Martin Donaghy, who is pushing for more apprentices to be taken on by firms during his mayoral year.

The 20-year-old, of Vallets Lane, Smithills, is no stranger to success, having already been shortlisted for the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and the UK Contractors Group apprentice of the year gongs this year.Mr Holt said: “This is by far the best event I have ever won or been shortlisted for.”

“I am incredibly proud to work for Seddon and can’t believe they have named me as their apprentice of the year — my parents will be over the moon.”

“I am really enjoying working in construction, it is a flexible career and there are a lot of different routes that I will be able to take.

“You need to work hard and be determined and this is something I am committed to doing.”

He was given his award by Seddon’s managing director Johnathan Seddon.

Mr Seddon said: “Many of our senior members of staff started their careers as apprentices and I can see Daniel rising to the top of the company if he continues to dedicate himself to his craft.”

Seddons, based in Plodder Lane, Farnworth boasts a turnover close to £200 million and trains 57 apprentices across the UK.

Cllr Martin Donaghy, who attended the ceremony, has vowed to find 50 young people an apprenticeship in his 50 weeks in office as the borough’s first citizen.

The Mayor of Bolton, who completed an apprenticeship in mechanical engineering in his younger years said: “I got that help and during my mayorality I want to give 50 young people the chance to learn a new skill and once they have served their time then we have young individuals who are qualified for life.

“These young people bring new ideas and vigour with them and they need to be given that chance.”