BRADFORD apprentice Abigayle Johnson has been crowned Apprentice of the Year at a special awards ceremony held at City Hall.

Miss Johnson, 20, works as a painter and decorator in Bradford Council’s Built Environment, Building and Technical Services team.

This is the latest success for the Leeds College of Building student this year, following on from winning the Apprentice/Trainee of the Year award at the 30th Premier Trophy Awards held by the Painting and Decorating Association.

She also picked up the Young Painter of the Year and Paper Hanger of the Year awards at her college, and also recently picked up the employee of the month.

She won this latest award after achieving the highest overall mark among Bradford Council’s apprentices following a comprehensive judging process by Council officers and representatives from City Training Services.

As well as excelling in her day-to-day work, Miss Johnson has also impressed in a special project at Sir Henry Mitchell House, where she has shown her artistic flair by designing and painting three murals to make the building more welcoming and friendly for children and families who visit.

Miss Johnson was presented with the award during a ceremony in the Banqueting Hall at City Hall.

She said: “I’m so glad to have done everyone proud this year both at work, college and for my family.

“After winning so many awards with college it’s great to get the recognition from work with this award so it’s much appreciated.”

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, presented Miss Johnson with her award.

He added: “Abi has shown herself to be a very talented apprentice.

“Her design work at Sir Henry Mitchell House in particular has proven to be very popular and I understand a number of other services would like similar designs on their own walls.

“I’m sure Abi has a fantastic future ahead of her and I wish her every success.

Miss Johnson is now a qualified painter and decorator, but would also like to go on to complete Level 3 of her apprenticeship, which covers the management side and will help her progress in her career.