The City of Coventry Freemen’s Guild is hunting for young apprentices from across Coventry to honour at its upcoming ‘Apprentice of the Year Awards’.

One of the most prestigious events of the year in Coventry, the awards will see two young apprentices honoured – one from the small to medium-sized business category, and one from the large business category.

The awards aim to shine a spotlight on the many achievements the young apprentices have had over the course of the year, and also highlight the importance of undertaking workplace training that leads to a skilled career path.

The awards are open to apprentices from across a range of different industries, including plumbing, electrical work, accountancy, construction and more. Last year’s event enticed a record number of people, making it the largest in its eight-year history, and this year’s winners will see the awards presented to them in a ceremony held in the historic St Mary’s Guildhall, in January 2014.

Judging panel and committee member, Judy Ryder, told The Coventry Telegraph: “We were delighted with last year’s awards - the standard of entries was exceptional, highlighting the enormous talent we have here in Coventry.

“We are confident that this year’s Apprentice of the Year Awards will be just as successful and we look forward to once again being able to recognise and reward these truly inspirational young people who are living and working in our city.”

Last year’s winner of the SME category was Christopher Williams, who completed an Intermediate Apprenticeship in Light Vehicles before moving on to complete an Advanced Apprenticeship. Ellis Simpson, 23, won the large company category for his completion of an Advanced Level Apprenticeship in Engineering.

Nominations must be submitted before Monday, 2 December, with the finalists being invited to talk to the judging panel on 8 January. A cheque for