Horticultural learners were among the prize winners at the eighth annual Lantra Land-based and Aquaculture Learner of the Year awards. This highly prestigious event, held at the Crieff Hydro hotel, attracted 140 guests and was attended by the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, Richard Lochhead.
Daryl Russell, who is employed by North Lanarkshire Council scooped the 'Horticultural Learner of the Year' award.
Daryl recently completed a SVQ Level 3 in Parks, Gardens and Open Spaces and is now undertaking a Modern Apprenticeship through the council. He said: "I decided early on that horticulture was the career for me. I achieved qualifications while at school through the school's vocational programme and then progressed on to the Modern Apprenticeship programme. By learning in a practical environment and observing those around me, I am able to put the theory I've learnt into practice. I know without a doubt that this is the career for me, and I will strive to do my best in all aspects of my work."
The 'Horticultural Runner-Up of the Year' award was presented to Ryan Mooney. Ryan completed a SVQ Level 2 in Amenity Horticulture and is now working towards completing a SVQ Level 3 in Parks, Gardens and Open Spaces through Langside College.
A total of 25 prizes were presented during the awards ceremony which was organised by Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for land-based and environmental industries. The awards, which attracted over 60 nominations, are designed to inspire new entrants to take up a career in the land-based and aquaculture sector and make employers aware of the benefits of a well trained workforce.
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