A student at Lakes College has qualified for a UK-wide apprentice competition.

Daniel Townsend, who is studying for a level three NVQ diploma in electrotechnical services, was put forward for the Sparks UK Electrical Apprentice of the Year Competition by lecturer Clinton Stamper.

Daniel, 20, of Whitehaven, who is an apprentice with Wise Contracting Group Ltd in Maryport, will take part in one of seven regional heats held in between January and Mark.

He will compete for a place in the grand final, which takes place on March 8 and 9 in Bracknell.

The competition is organised by Sparks Magazine for level two and three students.

Daniel said: "This competition will stand me in good stead for the future. The prizes you get for winning will help me to further my career in electrical installations."

Mr Stamper, electrical installation tutor, added: "Daniel has done really well. We always keep an eye out for students with potential and Daniel has proven to us that he’s more than capable of winning the competition.

"He’s a really neat and careful worker. It is a brilliant thing for him to achieve, and if he can win this year, it will make it the second year in a row that a Lakes College student has won the competition."

Former Lakes College student Luke Shield won last year’s contest.

Peter Wise, director of Wise Contracting Group Ltd, said: "We at Wise Contracting are immensely proud of Daniel being nominated.

"As an apprentice Dan is a very hard working individual and a valued member of our team. We wish him every success in the competition."

The winner of the competition will receive prizes worth more than £8,000.