APPRENTICES from Wirral were among more than 400 across Merseyside who were praised for their achievements during a special graduation ceremony this week. 

They received their certificates during an event at Liverpool's Anglican Cathedral on Tuesday.

Organised by The Liverpool City Region Apprenticeship Hub, its aim was to give apprentices from the six Merseyside boroughs the same recognition students receive on completion of degree.

Among them was Adam Hill, 21, from Seacombe, who studied information technology and undertook an apprenticeship with Wirral based IT repairs company, Proper Geeks.

He won the title of Wirral Apprentice of the Year at the Apprenticeship Awards 2013.

He said: "I began my apprenticeship as a completely raw individual, however, the work based and hands on nature of my apprenticeship allowed me to learn many new skills and excel at my job.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed the graduation today! It's great that we are now being given the chance to experience a graduation ceremony and that we have a day dedicated to celebrating our hard work!"

Siobhan Saunders, chair of Liverpool City Region Apprenticeship Hub, handed out scrolls to graduates on the day.

She said: "It was a superb day, thanks to the incredible atmosphere and enthusiasm among the graduates and their families.

"The ceremonies were hugely successful in showcasing the variety and value of apprenticeships and vocational learning, but more than that, they were fitting celebrations of hard work and dedication that might otherwise have been overlooked.

"I feel honoured to have had a front row seat to it all."