A FEMALE construction worker at Weaver Vale Housing Trust has been recognised as one of the best apprentices in the country.

Hollie Webb, 21, of Nursery Road, Barnton, is one of five women shortlisted for the Best Apprentice/New Starter of the Year as part of the Women in Construction Awards 2008.

With women accounting for approximately 10 per cent of the construction workforce, the awards are designed to celebrate those who are making their mark on the industry.

Hollie joined the Trust as an apprentice gas engineer three years ago and is working towards an NVQ Level 3 qualification and Accredited Certification Scheme (ACS) for gas operatives, which she hopes to pass later in the year.

Hollie said: "I was totally surprised, but excited, to find out I had been shortlisted for the award. I am grateful to the Trust for nominating me and giving me the opportunity.

"I have always had an interest in practical work, following in the footsteps of my dad and granddad, who were both tradesmen. So when the chance came to work at the Trust I was delighted."

Graham Roberts, Director of Property Services paid tribute to Hollie.

He said: "This is a fantastic testament to the hard work and dedication of Hollie and the team who support her.

"We are committed to encouraging more women into the construction industry, through our electrical, joinery, plumbing and gas engineering apprentice schemes, and also through the related professions."

He added: "Half our customers are women, and we want our property workforce to reflect our customer profile more closely in the future. This award nomination, we hope, will show our dedication to not only encouraging women into our industry but also the importance we place on training and development."

Hollie will find out if she has won the award at a glittering award ceremony at Mere Golf and Country Club on March 6.