AN Okehampton construction apprentice has been named a runner-up at this year's National Construction College (NCC) Awards.

Last week Sam Donaldson, 17, was commended alongside 49 other nominees for their outstanding efforts in 20 categories, including flooring, highways maintenance and essential skills.

Sam, who works for Ross Campbell Contractors, was a runner-up in the plant operations category.

The awards aim to celebrate the achievements of apprentices who have excelled in their chosen field and have successfully completed their skills framework over the last 12 months.

Andy Walder, director of the NCC, said: 'The NCC Awards are a great way to celebrate the achievements of young apprentices in our industry. We are extremely proud of everyone who was nominated or who won an award at this year's events.

'The NCC has been an essential catalyst for delivering the skills for growth the construction industry needs. These awards have allowed the NCC to showcase the young talent it helps to deliver on a regular basis – bringing fresh blood to industry.

'The National Construction College is focused on creating a highly skilled, safe and professional UK construction workforce.

'To achieve this, it has more first-class instructors in more locations than any other construction training provider in Europe, and offers free professional advice on finding the right training for individuals and construction organisations.'