High-flying Harry Garraway has claimed the Gold Award at UK Skills Show after becoming the Volkswagen Group’s youngest-ever Master Technician – at the age of 20.

Garraway, who collected his award at the NEC in Birmingham, made the transition from apprentice to Master Technician in just 12 months three-and-a-half years after joining Heritage Volkswagen Van Centre Bristol.

He completed his apprentice programme at the end of 2015, went on to become a Qualified Technician in March this year, and has now passed all the assessments required to achieve the highest technical level in the Van Centre network – Master Technician.

Garraway was also named Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Apprentice of the Year as well as Volkswagen Group Apprentice of the Year – having scored a perfect 100 per cent against the set criteria – on his way to his new qualification, and is also one of just five apprentices shortlisted for the IMI Outstanding Achievers award 2016.

Carl zu Dohna, director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “We were delighted when Harry was selected to represent the brand at the Skills Show, so to have come away with the top award is fantastic.

“We couldn’t be more proud of his achievements and to become a qualified Master Technician so young and in such a short space of time is outstanding.

“He is an inspiration to all aspiring technicians and proof that developing skills in an apprenticeship position really can be the springboard for a great career.

“We look forward to watching his development and seeing his talent nurtured further.”

Garraway said: “2016 has been the most amazing year for me. I’ve learnt so much and come so far. I’m really looking forward now to consolidating my skills and encouraging other young people to find and develop their passions in a job they love.

“The apprentice scheme has allowed me to work and learn and I’m grateful to Heritage and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles for their support.”