Dakota, who was nominated for the award by his employer, James Burns of Croft Electrical, faced stiff competition from nominations across the UK.

In his nomination, James talked about Dakota's commitment to the job, highlighting his 100% attendance - even when unwell - with examples of being sent back home after turning up to work ill.

James said: "I'm a small one-man band and I was told taking on an apprentice would be hard but with [Dakota's] eagerness and willing to learn it has been a massive help to the day to day running of the business."

"I'm so happy to have my very own set of tools, James will be asking to borrow mine now! I've got insurance as well for a full year, so that can make me calm down a bit thinking whether my tools will get robbed. I still can't believe I've won this award."