A STROUD-based apprentice has been nominated for a prestigious regional award.

Ben Townsend, 20, who works for Advanced Insulation has been put forward in the Intermediate & Advanced First Year Apprentice category as part of the EEF Future Manufacturing Awards.

This announcement comes just weeks after Ben won the BEMA ‘Apprentice of the Year’ – a highly regarded award from the British Engineering Manufacturers Association.

He is now up against shortlisted apprentices from across the West of England, each looking to be crowned regional winner at a ceremony taking place at Bristol Science Museum on November 6.

If successful, he will then go on to compete with other regional winners from across the UK for the national title which will be announced at an awards gala dinner in London early next year.

Ben is extremely proud just to have been nominated and is still coming to terms with his achievement.

“To be recognised for the second time this year for my work as an apprentice is quite surreal,” said Ben.

“I was on holiday with my family when I found out I’d be shortlisted and decided to come home early to attend the interview – which I hope showed the judges how much it means to me.

“The announcement is not far away now, I’m very much looking forward to the event and I’m sure on the day myself and the management team will be anticipating the outcome.”