A GARAGE supervisor from Leasowe has been crowned National Apprentice Tyre Technician of the Year.

Ryan Clark, 21, received the coveted title at the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) annual industry awards on October 3.

Working at the Kwik Fit centre in Ellesmere Port, Ryan was joined the company after leaving college and wants to follow in the footsteps of his granddad who was a mechanic.

After carrying out his apprenticeship at Kwik Fit in Wallasey and after graduating from the two year course, he was promoted to the role of supervisor at the Ellesmere Port centre.

Ryan earned his title after excelling in his training and development, receiving positive feedback from assessors and won the judges over with his personal statement in which he discussed his passion for the industry and need to learn new skills.

He told the Globe: "When I was told I had made it on to the final shortlist I felt very proud – not just of my own achievements but also the fact that it recognised the whole team who had supported me.

"It was fantastic to win the top award, because the standard of the other finalists was really high.

"I would like to thank my colleagues at Kwik Fit Wallasey for all the guidance I received during my apprenticeship there and to the team in the Ellesmere Port centre.”

The award, sponsored by the Worshipful Company of Wheelwrights, was open to apprentices working in around 2,000 tyre retailers across the country.

Ryan received a handcrafted miniature wagon wheel trophy, which was designed to reflect heritage and underline the skills which have long been integral to the tyre industry.

Paul Smith, divisional director for Kwik Fit, added: “Ryan was an outstanding apprentice from the very first day he joined Kwik Fit and it’s fitting that his hard work has been recognised at a national level.

"Our apprentice programme is designed to give our new starters the best career foundation possible, but obviously it’s down to the individual as to how far they can go.

“Ryan has impressed everyone since joining us with his skills, eagerness to develop and his attitude with customers.

"We know that this award is well deserved and recognition of the progress which has led to his new role, and we are confident that he will go a long way in this industry.”

A Kwik Fit Apprenticeship lasts around two years and provides a total of 91 Learning credits, those interested can visit www.kwik-fit.com/careers