Tom Hall, 21, from Snainton, is studying an Advanced Apprenticeship through his employer, SM Autocare of Pickering. He beat off strong contenders to win not only Second Year Motor Vehicle Apprentice but also Apprentice of the Year at the Institute of the Motor Industry's event, which currently has 25,000 members from all areas of the motor industry and is the leading awarding body for the motor trade.

Mr Hall said: "I couldn't believe it when they announced my name as Apprentice of the Year as I was just getting over being awarded Second Year Apprentice. It really is fantastic and a very proud moment in my life – it means so much to me."

He added "I would like to thank the staff at SM Autocare and Yorkshire Coast College for their support but, in particular, Steve Magson, my boss, who has given me a great opportunity."

Lecturer Bill Woodall said: "The IMI annual regional awards event has been running since 1946.

"All colleges and training providers are invited to nominate one apprentice from each year who then go forward to a selection interview. The apprentice deemed the best by the interview panel is then selected as student of the year.

"Tom is a very worthy winner. He is a dedicated apprentice and his work is always of an excellent standard."

The annual event was attended by organisations from all over the East and North Yorkshire area. To recognise his achievements, Tom received a plaque to keep and a trophy that now bears his name, which Tom has to return after a year.

Richard Johnson, who works for Lee Rumney Citroen Specialists of Scarborough, was a previous Yorkshire Coast College Motor Vehicle award winner.

If anyone is interested in a Motor Vehicle apprenticeship, they should contact Maggie Agar, Yorkshire Coast College's Business Development Advisor on 01723 356284.