A GAS fitting firm set up by a Bolton businessman four years ago is in line to win a national award at the Utility Week Stars Awards in June.

Richard Hearne is based in a Horwich hub from where he runs 1Gas, which is based in Brighton.

1Gas has been shortlisted for the Apprentice of the Year for the awards, thanks to the progress of trainee Derry Mulloy, aged 23, who has achieved an NHQ in Business Administration.

Mr Hearne, aged 31, launched 1Gas in 2010 to provide a comprehensive array of gas fitting services to domestic and business customers across the UK, including gas pipe and gas metre removals, installations and relocation works.