NORTH West Auctions trainee auctioneer William Alexander (pictured) won the National Young Show Stars Award for Young Auctioneers.

The 24 year-old from Lancaster, took part in the competition at the Three Counties Show Ground in Malvern, and won for his outstanding skill and knowledge of valuing and selling of livestock.

He was one of five finalists who had to demonstrate their skill as an auctioneer to judge Clive Roads, who is Agricultural Chairman for McCartneys in Worcester.

William, who has worked for North West Auctions since graduating from Harper Adams University, had to arrange a promotional display board which depicted himself, his sponsor and the livestock and meat industry.

He also had to show a wide range of skills which included valuing a variety of livestock, equipment and deadstock, identify crops, stock judge Dairy Cows, have a public interview where he had to demonstrate his knowledge of the livestock industry and write a 1000 word essay prior to the event.

All this impressed the judge who gave him top place and a trip to The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, Canada.

Mr Roads said: “William is a breath of fresh air to auctioneering, a young man with a fantastic professional attitude and an absolute credit to his company."

Bill Nelson, livestock manager for North West Auctions, said: “We are absolutely delighted that William has won this fantastic award. This competition is great at showing the ability and skill an Auctioneer needs."