William has his eyes on Gold

William Smith (19) is an apprentice Highway Maintenance Operative with Amey, the council’s roads and lighting partner.

He said: “I was entered by the company as part of its community benefit programme.

“No one was more surprised than me.

“I have also completed my Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and now I’m aiming for Gold.

“I suppose in some ways I had a fairly difficult past, but if anything it has spurred me into gaining qualifications and building a career.

“I don’t have a girlfriend or children, but when the times comes, I want to be in a position to provide for them.

“I am looking to the future.”

William was presented with the coveted glass trophy and certificate at the Lanarkshire Business Excellence Awards.

Congratulating the young apprentice, Amey partnership board member Councillor Bob Burrows said: “This is a tremendous achievement on the part of a young man setting out on what I hope will be a successful career.

“William is a great example of personal achievement and advancement.”

His remarks were echoed by the council’s planning and transportation convener Councillor James Coyle.

He said: I am very impressed by William.

“To be recognised in such a prestigious award from the many hundreds of apprentices throughout North Lanarkshire speaks volumes about him.

“I am delighted too that he is employed by a company with such close ties to the council and delivering a vital service to all our road users and residents.

“William is a confident young lad and I have no doubt he will go far - he even talked Councillor Burrows and me into sponsoring him to a 12-mile assault course, Tough Mudder, in aid of Help for Heroes and Alzheimer Scotland.

“We were more than pleased to donate.”

Amey account director David Black added: “William is a credit to the company.

“He has worked hard and his supervisor had no hesitation in putting him forward for the award.

“We are immensely proud of his achievement.”