Chemical worker Craig Ellison pledged to encourage more young people to join the industry as he was voted the northern winner in a prestigious awards competition.

The 26-year-old, who works for Cytec Industries UK Limited, in West Bowling is the regional winner of the Chemical Industry Young Person of the Year Award for Yorkshire and north east England.

Mr Ellison, who is a shift team leader, said many people had misconceptions about industry.

"The chemical industry is perceived as being an inaccessible industry saved only for the ultra-intelligent among us," he said.

" As its latest ambassador, I will be working to educate young people about the opportunities that are available to them in the industry.

"So many young people that I speak to do not realise that you don't need to get a degree before you can get a job in the industry. If you find the right company, as I did when I started in the industry, you can receive training and educational support while you are working."

The awards assess the ability, enthusiasm and leadership skills of young people in the chemical industry throughout the UK. All the entrants have to demonstrate their understanding of the issues and challenges faced by the industry and that they have taken action to understand public attitudes, listen to their concerns and change the negative perceptions of the important work the industry does.

Judith Hackitt, director general of the Chemical Industries Association (CIA) which organises the event, said: "It is extremely encouraging to see committed young people from all parts of the industry, like Craig, who are passionate about the work that they do. He is testament to what young people in our industry can achieve."

Mr Ellison received a certificate and cheque for £250 and will now join the five other regional finalists from across the UK to compete for the national title in July.

A regional runner-up prize was also awarded to Amanda Thompson, business operations analyst for Ciba Speciality Chemicals in Bradford.