A bank call centre worker from Bradford has been praised by a Government minister for his efforts to improve his skills and develop his career.

Mike Shaw, 27, used to be a window fitter before he joined first direct bank in Leeds four years ago.

He is among the first of its employees to study for a degree devised by first direct in partnership with The Business School at University of Huddersfield backed by government funding.

Mr Shaw shared his experience with delegates at a business breakfast hosted by first direct and attended by Rosie Winterton, Minister for Yorkshire, as well as about 50 employers.

The event aimed to encourage businesses to use Business Link Yorkshire to access government-backed support to help them through the recession, prepare for recovery and to recruit, train and skill staff.

Rosie Winterton said: “I am delighted to hear of the success Mike Shaw is enjoying in his career as a result of studying and I am sure he will continue to do well. I am also pleased to see how well the foundation degree is working.”