CHELTENHAM: Bence Builders Merchants was the main sponsor of the Construction Apprentice of the Year at the Gloucestershire Apprenticeship Awards 2012.

Managing director Paul Bence commented: "We really wanted to get involved with these awards as it is recognising some of the most enthusiastic young people who have chosen the apprenticeship route to a worthwhile career in construction.

"At a time of increasing unemployment amongst young people, the Government has placed the apprenticeship programme high on its priorities. We are taking advantage of the scheme by registering many of our current staff on NVQ programmes and recruiting new apprentices within the company, these measures are key to the future success of the business."