Two apprentices from the University of Lincoln’s National Centre for Food Manufacturing (NCFM) were chosen as finalists for the Lincolnshire and Rutland Skills Awards.

Gabrielle Smith, who completed her Advanced Apprenticeship in Food Manufacturing, was named Apprentice of the Year in the Manufacturing and Engineering Technologies category.

The judges were impressed that Gabrielle had secured a job and was undertaking a degree in Food Manufacturing, sponsored by her employer.

Gabrielle said: “I am delighted to have received the award.  It is a great reward for all the hard work and effort I put in.”

Martin Chapman, who also completed his Apprenticeship in Food Manufacturing at NCFM, was runner-up.  Martin works for J O Sims, a leading supplier of fresh produce, and is now employed by the company as a compliance officer.

Professor Val Braybrooks, Dean of NCFM and Holbeach Campus, said: “It is marvellous that Gabrielle and Martin made it to the finals.”