An apprentice from Portsmouth naval support company Fleet Support Limited (FSL) has won a national award as one of the UK’s top young shipwrights.

Dan Midgley (21), from Southsea, was awarded the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights’ Derek Kimber medal at a special ceremony in London.

Dan joined FSL as an apprentice plater/fabricator in 2000 and, having completed his apprenticeship under the training provision of VT Plus Training, he is now fast tracked for further progress at the company, which maintains Royal Navy ships and carries out other support services at the Naval Base. After a period as a materials planner, he is set to gain experience as a hull technician.

His success in the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights scheme came after competition with youngsters from throughout the marine industry, including shipbuilders, shiprepairers and specialists from the leisure marine world.

After initial assessment from a written entry, Dan joined 11 other candidates for a week-long competition in Northumberland that tested apprentices on their ability to cope under pressure, problem solving, leadership skills and teamwork.

The final part of the assessment was an outward bound course and throughout the week candidates were interviewed by a panel of six assessors.

“From that group, the final four candidates were selected and we were sent to London for further interviews by a committee of 12 who chose the winners,” explained Dan.

FSL Apprentice Training Manager Eddy Perry added: “It was the first time FSL has entered an apprentice for the award and we will now send Dan forward to the apprentice of the year award covering all industries. He has been a tremendous ambassador for the company.”