Twenty-year-old plasterer Keeley McIntyre, of Shipley, was named Apprentice of the Year.

Keeley, who works for Bradford social housing group Incommunities, admitted she fell into the trade almost by accident, adding that she knew nothing about plastering when she started about three years ago.

"I wanted to do something really hands on," said Keeley. "Plastering caught my attention. I knew nothing about it and just thought I would give it a go. I am good at it."

Keeley also spoke of the value and benefit of apprenticeships, saying: "I think it is better than a degree because you are actually getting hands on experience. You are learning and earning at the same time, so it is good. It is a really good thing to get into."

MORE FROM THE BRADFORD MEANS BUSINESS AWARDS

She was nominated for the award by her employer, who said: "Keeley McIntyre joined Incommunities in September 2013 after applying for a place on our apprenticeship programme. Although Keeley didn’t really know which trade area she wanted to work in, she decided to choose plastering and she hasn’t looked back since.

"She shows a real commitment and aptitude to learn and develop. Plastering is a difficult skill to gain and it means hours and hours of learning and practice. However, over the past 12 months, she has grown to become a key member of the team and developed a real self-confidence."

After being presented with her award, a stunned Keeley said: "I feel great, shocked. I was not expecting it.

"I feel proud - I don't know what to say."

Highly commended by judges were Connor Scherer (Malik House) and Charlotte Westall (Exceed).