A YOUNG worker at a Bolton mirror manufacturer has been named a college apprentice of the year — and entered for a national award.

Dean Todd, aged 17, from Westhoughton, works for A1 Mirrors, at Swan Mill Centre, Higher Swan Lane, and has been named Apprentice of the Year at Bury College, where he studied while training.

Sales director Richard Adams said: “Dean joined us 18 months ago and started work as a general packer. He’s learned to cut glass, polish and drill glass, and he can now do anything that a qualified glass cutter double his age could do. He has all the skills of an older man.

“He came here and at first would get stressed-out about some things. It was his first job but he’d sometimes walk out the room or slam doors if things weren't going right.

“However, through mentoring from myself and other staff he has turned things around.”

There is a category for Young Person/Apprentice of the Year and also Best Company for Apprentice Development, in this year's Bolton and Business Business Awards. to enter go to the boltonnews.co.uk/business_awards The firm works in wholesale and retail, with commercial customers including retailer Selfridges and clothing brand Nike. Its mirrors are made for business, education and domestic locations including shops, salons, changing rooms, schools, nurseries, toilets and bathrooms. It also offers delivery and installation services. Dean has been attending an apprentice warehousing course at Bury College once a week and completed his NVQ qualification.

Mr Adams added: “He was named Apprentice of the Year by Bury College. They really liked the way he had turned things around to become a model and very focused employee.”

Dean’s full-time recruitment takes the Swan Mill site’s workforce to nine.

The apprentice said: “I first met Richard when I was working at the Glynis Riley corner shop in Bolton Road in Westhoughton. We used to have a chat and I kept in contact with him. When I was younger, I didn’t have the slightest clue about what I’d do for a job. I asked Richard if I could come to A1 Mirrors.

“When I left school, he offered me an apprenticeship. I’d recommend apprenticeships because the experience can change your life.”

Dean said his mum, Karen Todd, of Dewham Close, Westhoughton, was especially proud of his achievements and he also thanked Bury College for its help. Mr Adams said the Avanta training organisation, which has various offices including one in Knowsley Street, Bolton, introduced him to Bury College’s apprentice courses.

He added: “Apprenticeships boost young people’s confidence and offer businesses support financially.”

Dean has been entered into the National Apprentice Awards. The deadline for entries is April 26.

Visit apprenticeships.org.uk