HIS SKILLS and knowledge of all things electrical have won a 23-year-old Callington man an apprentice of the year title.

Electrician Brendon Houghton gained the honour at the Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) and Edmundson National Apprentice awards.

An employee of ECA member, Southern Electric Contracting (SEC) in Bodmin, Brendon fought off hundreds of other hopefuls from across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Managing director of Edmundson Electrical Douglas McNair presented Brendon with a cheque for £1,000 at the ceremony at a hotel in Kensington. Part of his prize will also be a study trip to Grenoble in France, sponsored by Schneider Electric.

To be shortlisted, Brendon had first to obtain high marks in the City and Guilds examination for electrical work, and above 95% in the industry skills test. He then faced a regional interview, and subsequently was one of only eight candidates from all over the UK selected to appear in front of a final judging panel.

Mr McNair said: 'It's a great accolade to be among the final eight in the competition let alone be awarded the overall title of ECA Edmundson Young Apprentice of the Year.'

SEC district contracts manager Russell Lye, who nominated Brendon for the award, said his success was well deserved: 'Brendon is a very bright and mature young man. Ever since he started his apprenticeship with us four years ago, he has been totally committed to his training and eager to qualify as a fully trained electrician.

'As part of his apprenticeship Brendon took on key roles in various projects at Newquay Airport as part of its expansion. He has a dynamic and professional attitude to his work and the calibre to become an excellent electrician.'

Brendon said: 'I'm very pleased to have been chosen as this year's winner. I've really enjoyed my apprenticeship, particularly the academic side, and it's great to finally be able to say that I'm a fully qualified electrician.'