LEARNERS and companies from across Dorset swept the board at the South West Skills Awards.

The prestigious awards ceremony was organised by the Learning Skills Council (LSC).

The event recognised the outstanding successes of individuals and organisations in learning and training across the region.

Dorset County Council was named the Macro Employer of the Year for the development of its in-house apprenticeship scheme. The council currently has 66 apprentices working within the organisation in a variety of roles.

The winners and finalists were presented with their awards by Scottish rugby and Strictly Come Dancing star Kenny Logan, who was also the guest speaker at the event held at the Sandy Park Stadium in Exeter.

Four of the region’s apprentices were recognised for their achievements. Lera Noskova a retail apprentice at JE Beale plc and Shannon Evans, an engineering apprentice at Sunseeker International were both commended in the Young Apprentice of the Year category.

Izabela Drake received a commendation in the Apprentice of the Year category for her achievements while studying for an apprenticeship in retail financial services at LV. And Lauren Curry, who is taking an advanced apprenticeship in floristry was commended in the advanced category.

Businesses from across the county were also recognised for their commitment and achievements in training.

Royal Bournemouth and Christ-church NHS Foundation Trust was named the Train to Gain Large Employer of the Year.

Streetscene Addiction Recovery was commended in the Train to Gain Small Employer of the Year category and Bournemouth YMCA also received a commendation in the Train to Gain Medium Employer of the Year category.

Train to Gain Director, Chris Minett, who sponsored this award, said: “This is a fantastic example of how businesses can benefit from the advice and help offered by the Train to Gain service, improving skills and motivate and inspire employees. We are delighted that all these businesses have been recognised for their outstanding efforts to boost the skills of their staff.”

Kenny Logan, said: “ I am very proud to be part of these awards as I know how difficult it is to train when you are older. I have been through many of the same situations as many of these award winners and they have achieved a great deal.”

Malcolm Gillespie, regional rirector of the LSC said: “The awards are a fantastic celebration of the achievements of all our finalists.”