DAN Johnson’s decision to choose an apprenticeship over university not only led to a full-time job that he loves but has also won him the title of Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.

The 20 year-old, who lives in Guisborough, has won the Geoff Waterfield Memorial Trophy in Redcar & Cleveland Council’s Pride Awards and is the toast of his company Sign Art, based in the Innovation Centre at Redcar which is run by UK Steel Enterprise, the Tata Steel business-support subsidiary.

The company designs, produces and installs bespoke signs, vehicle graphics, banners, wall wraps and print for customers that include Siemens, Virgin, Tata Steel, EDF Energy and ElringKlinger AG as well as colleges and hotels.

Elsa Weatherhead, Sign Art's finance manager, said: "The award recognises an outstanding apprentice who is passionate to learn and achieve,” said Elsa Weatherhead, Sign Art’s Finance Manager. “We are all very proud of Dan and have been so impressed with the value he has added to our business on the manufacturing side and in developing client relationships.

"We are expanding strongly and Dan is playing an important part. We are seeing a growth market in vehicle wrapping as more drivers look to customise and protect their cars. Dan’s apprenticeship has included training in wrapping as well as sign making, fitting, working at heights and other aspects of the business.

"We believe that apprentices are very valuable to the business, the individual and to develop the skills base that the area needs. We had no hesitation in asking Dan to become a full-time member of the team and we would like to take on another apprentice soon."

Dan joined Sign Art in 2013 and said: “I have learnt so much and thoroughly enjoy my job. I definitely made the right career decision and winning the Trophy has been the icing on the cake and a fantastic surprise.”

The family run business is run by Eddie Guy with daughter Elsa and son Harry.