A WEST Devon woman is celebrating after being named regional heat winner in the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) South West Apprenticeship awards. Marcia Smith, 20, from Lifton, a Plymouth College of Further Education apprentice, is currently completing an advanced apprenticeship in hospitality supervision at Lifton Farm Shop. She was praised for being a strong leader, motivator and a good role model for other apprentices. Marcia said: ?I couldn?t believe it when they announced I had won. It makes all the hard work worthwhile. ?I?d really like to thank my employer and college tutors for nominating me and for their support and encouragement.? Head of work-based learning at PCFE, Julie Mclean said: ?We are delighted with Marcia?s success; she is a credit to herself and her employers. The advanced apprenticeship requires a high level of commitment to learning from all apprentices, employers and staff.? Marcia received her award from television and radio presenter Philippa Forrester at the ceremony held last Friday at the Woodbury Park Hotel in Exeter. The awards form part of the LSC?s national event to be held in June, and showcase outstanding apprentices and employers who are successfully using apprenticeships to improve their business performance and tackle skills shortages.