A WORCESTERSHIRE electrician has been recognised as one of the industry's brightest sparks in a top award scheme.

Russell Oakey, of Whitbourne, near Worcester, was named as a top electrical apprentice when he won the Midlands Region Award 2004 during a ceremony at the House of Lords.

The honour recognised the 22-year-old as the top electrical apprentice in the area at an event organised by JTL, the leading training company to the building services engineering sector.

Former JTL apprentice Mr Oakey, who is now employed by Central Networks, was invited to the ceremony together with nine other winners from across England and Wales.

He was presented with a £750 cash prize, a plaque and certificate of achievement by JTL chairman Bob Harris.

The 10 award winners were chosen on the basis of their results from the industry's Achievement Measurement Two (AM2) test.

As the final practical examination before gaining qualified electrician status, more than 2,000 apprentices take the AM2 test each year.

"JTL is committed to ensuring the building services engineering sector receives the best available qualified and skilled craftspeople," said Mr Harris.

"The National Awards is just one way in which we like to recognise the young people who are the future of the industry and I am delighted to present Russell with his award."

He completed his apprenticeship in 2004, following four years work-based learning that saw him gain an NVQ Level 3 in electrical installation.

"I was delighted with to win the award and I am looking forward to a good career as an electrician," added Mr Oakey.

JTL delivers electrical and plumbing Advanced Apprentice-ships (AA) by securing the funding and providing guidance for apprentices between the ages of 16 to 24.

The AA includes practical on-the-job, earn-as-you-learn training, coupled with attendance on college courses and achieving a vocational qualification.