A Dorchester man who self-funded a career in civil engineering construction has received a prestigious industry award at a special ceremony in Torquay.

Dan Horne started work as a site operative when he left school but decided to retrain as a quantity surveyor to open up new career opportunities.

His commitment and motivation were rewarded when he was named the Most Promising Trainee Quantity Surveyor at the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) South West Young Achiever Awards, sponsored by KierBAM and Frazer.

Now, he’s set to join the apprenticeship degree training programme with his employer Kier Group and then progress towards chartership.

Dan, pictured left, said: “It was a conversation with a quantity surveyor close to my family that opened up a whole new opportunity for me.

“I realised that the skills I would learn would not only improve my prospects today but would be transferable potentially to projects around the world.

“Since I have joined Kier, I have invested myself in the projects they’re running.

“This has been an incredible experience and is a great starting point in my career.”

Phil Ramsden, CECA South West Chair, pictured right, said: “Daniel has proven himself to be not only a quick learner but someone who is determined to invest in his own future.

“He clearly has a very bright career ahead of him.

“His willingness to support colleagues across all departments means he is in demand.

“He is also a role model for other young men and women – and career changers – who may be considering opportunities in an industry fundamental to the region’s transport, energy and environmental infrastructure and economic success.”

The CECA South West Young Achiever Awards are presented annually in recognition of exceptional performance with each winner receiving a trophy and cheque for £500.