A YOUNG apprentice has done himself proud after making it through to the national final of a plumbing competition for the second year running.

Harry Teasdale Jnr, who works at HT Energy in Swainby, North Yorkshire, walked away with first place after impressing the judges at the regional heat of HIP! Magazine's Apprentice of the Year 2013 competition.

The 18-year-old, who studies at Redcar & Cleveland College as part of his Plumbing and Heating Apprenticeship progamme, had to show off his plumbing skills during a day of complex tasks, which included installing a radiator and carrying out all of the necessary plumbing work.

He competed against students from five other colleges in the north east heat, from Hull to Newcastle, but took top marks for his precision, thoroughness and skill.

The Stockton student said: "I was very chuffed to win the regional heat and now can't wait for the national final in May.

"The tasks they set us were not easy, but I really enjoyed it and just tried to approach it as though it was a normal day at work. Competitions are always a bit nerve-wracking, but it was definitely worth it."

Redcar and Cleveland College's Eco House training centre, which is fitted with the latest renewable training equipment, has enabled the teenager to develop the skills necessary to work in the evolving plumbing, heating and renewable energy industry.

His father, Harry Teasdale Snr, is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Development Manager at the College.

For more information about apprenticeship programmes and other courses at the college call 01642-473132 and ask for Student Services or visit cleveland.ac.uk