A YOUNG mechanic working at a village garage has won a top apprentice award.

Former Minster College A-level student Chris Moore is studying the theoretical side of Motor Mechanics at Herefordshire College of Technology and gaining practical experience at Markhams Garage, Kingsland.

The course is overseen by ReMit, the training arm of the retail motor industry, which named the 22-year-old as '2nd Year Apprentice of the Year 2004' in the Herefordshire area.

To gain his certificate and £50 prize Chris had to complete a portfolio demonstrating proof of jobs undertaken in the garage workshops, attain key skills in Maths, English and IT and pass a series of exams - which he did with distinctions all round.

"We're very proud of Chris," said Jackie Markham at the garage.

Chris is now well into his third year of study, which includes more complicated workshop procedures such as electronic diagnostics skills, health and safety and general management.

Chris, whose dad owns P&T Moore car dismantlers near Stoke Prior, said that all his life he had been surrounded by cars and car parts.

His interests include coarse fishing, circuit training and playing Sunday football for The Bell, Leominster.