Organisers have announced the finalists for the new Dorset Apprenticeship Awards.

Nominees on the 12-strong shortlist are in the running for honours at the inaugural competition’s celebratory lunch with dignitaries on Wednesday May 18.

Dorset Chamber has joined forces with the Dorset and Somerset Training Provider Network and sponsor Superior Seals for the initiative celebrating the contributions of apprenticeships to business.

The finalists are:

Intermediate Apprentice of the Year:

• Ellie Edmonds (ABP Yetminster)
• Lewis Cogman (YMCA Bournemouth)
• Will Perry (Caterpillar Marine Power)
• Ellie Taylor (J Cossins and Sons Ltd)

Advanced Apprentice of the Year:

• David Harper (GF Electrical Ltd)
• Cameron Hearn (Frettens Solicitors)
• Rimshah Khan (Crest Software Ltd)
• Brandon Long (Inoplas Technology Ltd)

Higher and Degree Apprentice of the Year:

• Rebecca Buck (Dorset Council)
• Lloyd Bleese (Dorset Police)
• Thomas Peach (Honey Asset Finance Ltd)
• Abigail Squibb (Westbourne Medical Centre)

Ian Girling, Chief Executive, Dorset Chamber, said: “We are proud to announce our 12 finalists.

“It is a tremendous achievement to reach the awards shortlist and our congratulations go to them all.

“We received a superb response to these first apprenticeship awards, including many fascinating entries from apprentices in a broad range of roles and different age groups.

“It was also wonderful to see so many entries from apprentices at different levels and from across the county.

“The awards lunch promises to be a fantastic celebration of the many talented apprentices we have in Dorset and the contribution they make to our county’s businesses.

“Good luck to all of the apprentices on the day.”

Winners will be revealed at the awards lunch with dignitaries including the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset Angus Campbell.

Guests will also include leaders of both BCP and Dorset councils.

The awards were free to enter with entries invited from apprentices and their employers.