A car-crazy Bromyard man is in the driving seat after being named Volkswagen's top performing apprentice in the UK.

Twenty-year-old Tom Hulburd, who is in the middle of a three-year apprenticeship at South Hereford Garages, consistently achieved top marks in each part of his course and was graded "excellent" by tutors.

His mechanic skills are regularly assessed at the garage, he spends ten weeks training at the Volkswagen Academy in Bridgwater and studies for an NVQ at Hereford College.

"I'm really happy with it all," said Tom.

"I worked in a garage for a year after doing my A'Levels, and realised that this is what I want to do.

"I've always enjoyed playing around with cars, all my mates are interested in it too.

"I'm especially interested in Volkswagens. I've had a couple of Golfs, so when I heard about the course here I was really pleased."

Garage spokesman Colin Barker said he was very proud of Tom's achievements.

"His reports from the Volkswagen Academy are glowing and he's already earned a great deal of respect from his colleagues for his willingness to share his new-found knowledge."

Tom, who passed his driving test two months after his 17th birthday, is now working on cars unsupervised.

"I really enjoy working on my own. If I get stuck, I can ask for help and I can help other people at the garage too," he explained.

"It's hard work, but I prefer it that way. I like having the challenge."