A Motherwell worker has been named Plant Mechanic Apprentice of the Year 2023/2024.

Lewis Frew, an employee at at Onestop Access, was given the award by the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA).

The awards, supported by Kubota and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), spotlights the abilities of apprentices progressing through CITB programmes.

Glasgow Times:

Mr Frew said: "I am extremely thankful for this award.

"I would like to thank everyone I have worked with who has helped me hone and develop my skills and given me the opportunity to progress. I would also like to thank the colleges and tutors for their continued support and also the SPOA for this recognition.”

Christopher Blake, curriculum manager at CITB Plant, nominated Mr Frew for the award due to his work ethic and skills.

Mr Blake said: "The 2023/2024 award winner Lewis was unanimously chosen by his tutors in both England and Scotland.

"Lewis has a first-class work ethic; he always strives to learn more and no challenge seems to faze him.

"He is always the first to college in the morning, even if he has attended a breakdown before college starts, and he is usually the last one to leave. This young man has been a standout apprentice at Inchinnan all year.”

Rob White, division manager at Construction Kubota UK, said: "We feel it's important to acknowledge and encourage such great work and determination and congratulate Lewis on what I'm sure will be the first of many achievements.

"We look forward to welcoming him at our Kubota UK Headquarters later in the year.”

Chris Findlay, service manager at Onestop Access, said Mr Frew proved from his hard work and effort that he is worthy of the award.

John Sibbald, SPOA president, said: "The SPOA is working hard to attract young people into our industry, and the annual Apprentice of the Year Awards play a really important role in this.

"My congratulations to Lewis and I hope that he inspires others to follow a career in plant.”