By Andy Hamilton

Donald Findlay QC will speak at a gala dinner recognising Ayrshire’s top apprentices in Irvine next month. 

Organisers of the 2017 Apprentice of the Year are delighted by the decision to extend the competition as the evening now looks set to be a sell-out.

Businesses from all over Ayrshire have already signed up for the event to be held in Irvine’s new Portal Leisure Centre on September 22.

The winner of the 2017 Apprentice of the Year will receive a cash prize of £1,000 and their employer will collect a trophy recognising their involvement. .

Donald Findlay QC will be the main speaker with Willie Young - a former solicitor and top grade football referee - taking on the role of Master of Ceremonies for the evening. 

Entertainment on the night will be provided by North Ayrshire Schools Pipe Band, North Ayrshire Senior Concert Band and an ensemble of orchestras made up of talented local pupils. 

There will also be a Silent Auction with some high value items on offer including:

  • Return flights for two to JFK Airport, New York - donated by Sir Richard Branson
  • A four-ball golf match - donated by Royal Troon
  • A case of wine - donated by Sir David Murray

The awards, run by Irvine Trades Organisation, is the only one of its kind in Ayrshire.

Co-ordinating the awards is former Central Ayrshire MP Brian Donohoe, Deacon of the Weavers Trade in Irvine: “I decided to do this because I can never forget the lessons I learned as a young apprentice in the shipyards. Training young people in work skills, to me, is the key to setting them up with real jobs and real careers as well as giving the local economy a lift.

“The training of work skills is all-important. Practical education for a sizable percentage of the population has been undervalued in recent years and I think we are suffering as a result. Both the workplace and the workforce benefit from having apprentices on board.

“An organised training programme with industry recognised qualifications at the end sets young people up for life. It is the most assured way of getting to the top in any career.”

The dinner takes place on Friday, September 22, with a table of 10 costing £1,000.

Included are canapes and sparkling wine on arrival, a four-course dinner and all wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks.

Companies interested in the last of the tables should get in touch with Brian directly on 07774646600 or at donohoebrianh@gmail.com