AN APPRENTICE electrician has two reasons to celebrate, after winning a top award and becoming a qualified sparky on the same day.

Corey Woodhouse was named the winner-of-winners at Incommunities' annual Apprentice of the Year ceremony.

The fourth-year apprentice also picked up the Electrical Award on the night, after being praised for his "truly amazing" thirst for knowledge.

Speaking afterwards, the 22-year-old said that just before the ceremony he had also got a phone call telling him he had qualified as an electrician.

He said: "It was quite a surreal night, really. I was happy to win the Electrical award, but when they started reading out the description of the apprentice of the year, I realised they were talking about me.

"To find out I was qualified at the same time, I thought, 'This is mental, it's all coming at me at once!'"

Mr Woodhouse, of Burley-in-Wharfedale, who has been attending Bradford College one day a week as part of his apprenticeship, said he would recommend the earn-as-you-learn route into work.

He said: "It has worked out perfectly for me. I think apprenticeships are one of the best things ever."

Other award-winners were Keeley McIntyre, who was given the Main Trades award, Tion Richards who got the Plumbing award, Gavin Wilkinson who was named best new apprentice, Emily Cook, who was given the Graham Watson Special Achievement award and Adam Renard, who received the Peer Award, voted for by fellow apprentices.

The Mentor Award went to joiner Stephen Brown, for the support he provided as part of the housing group's apprenticeship programme.

Delroy Beverley, director of Incommunities – Propertysolutions, with responsibility for managing the group’s apprenticeship programme, said: “Each year these awards recognise the application, skills, aptitude and team work shown by some of the best apprentices in the country.

"Behind their success is a highly professional team of managers, mentors and staff who are committed to helping each apprentice to achieve their potential.

"Well done to Corey, all the prize winners and a special thanks to our business sponsors who each year show their support for these prestigious awards."

Geraldine Howley, Incommunities Group chief executive, said: "These awards provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and showcase the fantastic contribution made by our apprentices.

"I would like to congratulate all our award winners, those commended and all those apprentices nominated. They can be extremely proud of their achievements in the last twelve months and their contribution to our successful customer-focused business."

The event was held at East Riddlesden Hall, Riddlesden.

Incommunities’ award winning apprenticeship programme covers a range of construction trades. It is currently training 24 people, from school leavers to men and women looking for a new career.