A BASINGSTOKE-based apprentice has been made named as a top apprentice.

Bus and coach engineering apprentice Keiron Higginson was given the Year 3 Apprentice of the Year at the Stagecoach UK Bus awards on September 5.

The award Keiron took home was one of ten that were available to Stagecoach apprentices across the country.

Kieron received a cash prize, trophies and tools, as well as a trip to the Scania factory and training facility in Stockholm, where he will have the opportunity to drive the company’s test circuit.

Kieron’s manager Reg Oldham said: “Since his very first day with us Kieron has developed new skills and abilities at a truly impressive rate and, because of his passion for his chosen profession, will doubtless continue to do so throughout his working life.

“He is a well liked, respected and productive member of the team who is already an asset to our industry and still improving rapidly.”

Stagecoach Bus has 195 apprentices across its UK operation; the programme is designed to recruit, train and retain people to provide the necessary skills and expertise to maintain its fleet.

Stagecoach South currently employ 11 engineering apprentices at its eight depots across Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex.

The company has two four year programmes in body work engineering or mechanic/electrical engineering.

On completion, the apprentice is awarded an Advanced Apprenticeship in Bus and Coach Engineering Maintenance.

The awards, held in Manchester, are designed to recognise the hard work that Stagecoach apprentices put into obtaining their qualifications.

This year marks the 14th occasion of the awards taking place.