EAST Lancashire has scooped a hat-trick of national business awards for apprentices.

Benjamin Farnsworth, from Clitheroe, won gold for his outstanding performance as a first-year trainee at manufacturing firm Techni-Grind Machining.

And Darwen company Crown Paints was recognised for its efforts to improve environmental performance.

The prizes were handed out at the EEF/Aldermore Future Manufacturing Awards ceremony in London last week.

BAE Systems, which has a site in Samlesbury, was also honoured as apprentice Pavandeep Bhogal received a commendation in the category won by Mr Farnsworth.

All three winners were selected by a panel of judges.

Mr Farnsworth, 20, said: “As a first-year apprentice this award is like the icing on the cake. I’ve learned skills that have set me on the path of an interesting and rewarding career.”

The East Lancashire entrants were up against competition from a range of apprentices and businesses, small and large, from across the UK.

Crown Paints was highly commended in the Environmental Efficiency Award.

Mark Lloyd, the firm’s sustainability manager, said: “There are so many fantastic manufacturers in the UK – to be highly commended for this national award is a massive compliment.”

Mr Bhogal, 22, said: “I’m delighted to have been highly commended, especially after being up against some other incredibly talented and dedicated apprentices.

“After meeting them and seeing my own success I would have no hesitation in urging other young people to become an apprentice in manufacturing.”

John Morris, chief executive officer of award sponsors JAM Recruitment, added: “The fact that there are three winners from this region is testament to the strength of Lancashire’s manufacturers .”