'Workforce of the future' - apprentices & their supporters celebrated at Lancashire Apprenticeship Awards 2026
The hardworking individuals and organisations involved in apprenticeships across Lancashire were celebrated at a special awards night last week.
On Thursday, May 7, Iconic Media, with media partners Lancashire Post and Blackpool Gazette, held the annual Lancashire Apprenticeship Awards at Blackpool Football Club.
Guests were welcomed with a drinks reception, sponsored by Blackpool FC, followed by a three-course meal and a prestigious awards ceremony, during which attendees celebrated 14 award categories, recognising both outstanding apprentices and the employers and training providers who support them.
The awards serve as a platform to showcase the outstanding contributions of apprentices, employers, and training providers across Lancashire, recognising the vital role they play in developing future talent and supporting the region’s economy.
Speaking on the night, Nicola Adam, Iconic Media Editor in Chief North said: “Welcome to the Lancashire Apprenticeship Awards 2026. In a world where it is harder than ever to get a start in life, apprenticeships play a critical role in identifying talent and potential early and in shaping the future of our young people. These awards celebrate those who have grasped the opportunity and bloomed within their own chosen apprenticeships, setting a solid base for their future while playing an invaluable role within industry. They are the leaders, the creative force and the skilled workforce of the future, they are an inspiration to their peers and today is for them and as a thank you to those who have embraced and supported them”
Speaking after the event, a spokesperson for Iconic Media said that the Lancashire Apprenticeship Awards celebrated “the individuals who have embraced the opportunities apprenticeship programmes provide and flourished within their chosen careers.
“Through dedication, ambition and hard work, they are building strong foundations for the future while making a meaningful impact within their industries.
“As the innovators, leaders and skilled workforce of tomorrow, they continue to inspire those around them and showcase the true value of apprenticeships.
“Apprentices prove that it is possible to rise to the top, driving change and innovation in their workplaces while making significant contributions to the local economy.
“This celebration marks the achievements of a generation that is breaking barriers, investing in themselves, and playing a vital role in regional growth.”
The organisers thanked everyone who supports these rising stars, and to those embracing apprenticeships, “for their contributions benefit us all”.
A special thank you was also given to the esteemed panel of judges, comprising industry experts, who diligently reviewed every nomination to determine this year’s finalists and eventual winners.
The judging process was meticulous, reflecting the high calibre of submissions received across the region.
Iconic Media extend their sincere thanks to the judging panel:
- Martin Blunt, Head of the Enterprise and Engagement Unit - University of Central Lancashire
- Cllr Kath Benson, Cabinet Member for Young People and Aspiration - Blackpool Council
- Katherine Higgins, Business Development Team Manager at B&FC for Business - Blackpool and The Fylde College
- Ste Molyneux, Emerging Talent Lead | People Team - Matalan
- Graham White, Chief Executive Officer - Lancaster and Morecambe Chamber of Commerce
- Rebecca Wharton, Talent Development Manager - Government Commercial Agency
Rebecca Wharton said: “I would like to congratulate all of the finalists. The standard of entries blew me away. What a celebration of all your ongoing achievements”
Graham White added: “I want to congratulate all our finalists. You are the future of our industries, and tonight is a celebration of your hard work and commitment. It’s been an honour to be a judge. The calibre has been exceptional, and your achievements and ambitions are genuinely inspiring”
During the event, a raffle was also organised to raise funds for the Charity Partner CancerCare North Lancashire & South Cumbria which provides vital counselling and complementary therapy services to adults and children affected by cancer, life-shortening illnesses and bereavement.
For more than 40 years, the independent local charity has supported thousands of people across the region through its dedicated centres in Lancaster, Barrow, Kendal and Morecambe.
While all services are provided free of charge to those who need them, CancerCare relies heavily on fundraising and community support to help cover its annual running costs of around £2 million.
Organisers were pleased to share that the raffle donation equated to £2,390 as they thanked to guests for ther generosity.
CancerCare's Deputy Head of Fundraising Kat Michaels said: “What an honour it was to be the charity partner for the 2026 Lancashire Apprenticeship Awards. CancerCare is a local, independent charity that supports people affected by cancer and bereavement across North Lancashire and South Cumbria, and we’re incredibly grateful to have been part of an event that champions local people, businesses and organisations.
“On behalf of CancerCare, a huge congratulations to all the finalists and winners who were celebrated at the fabulous awards evening. And thank you to the LAA team for allowing us to be part of the celebrations, whilst helping to raise awareness of our vital services and the impact cancer can have on our lives.”
The event was hosted by Neetal Parekh, a broadcaster, educator and changemaker whose work across radio, television, podcasts and social media reaches millions.
Neetal is recognised for promoting cultural understanding, community cohesion and diverse storytelling, with a strong digital presence attracting more than 2 million daily Instagram views.
In 2021, she was shortlisted for the Harper’s Bazaar Change Leader Award for producing multilingual COVID-19 vaccine awareness videos later adopted by the UK Government.
Neetal has also led landmark cultural initiatives, including the first Diwali prayers at Liverpool Football Club, while continuing to champion diverse voices through her media and education work.
Keep up to date with the event visit the website https://lancashireapprenticeshipawards.co.uk/
You can see a picture gallery of all the winners here but take a look at the list below.
Intermediate Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Erin Leadbeater, Lancashire Constabulary
Presented by Katherine Higgins, Business Development Team Manager
Advanced Apprentice of the Year.
Presented by Iconic Media, Editor in Chief North, Nicola Adam
Highly Commended awarded to Owen Hook, WWL Teaching Hosp. NHS Foundation Trust
Higher Apprentice of the Year
Sponsored by VEKA PLC.
Presented by Sally Blades, VEKA HR Director
Degree Apprentice of the Year
Presented by Judge and Councilor Kathryn Benson
Construction Apprentice of the Year Award
Presented by Lee Good, North West Media Sales Manager at Iconic Media
Engineering / Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
Highly Commended awarded to Abbie Prior, Leyland Trucks
Presented by Host Neetal Parekh
Health and Public Service Apprentice of the Year Award
Presented by judge Rebecca Wharton, Government Commercial Agency
Professional Services Apprentice of the Year Award
Presented by Graham White, judge and Chief Executive Officer of Lancaster and Morecambe Chamber of Commerce
Technology and Digital Apprentice of the Year Award
Highly Commended awarded to Felicity Bruce, Vodafone
Presented by host Neetal Parekh
Mentor of the Year
Presented by Kat Michaels, Deputy Head of Fundraising at CancerCare/
Apprentice Ambassador
Winner: Zafeerah Bagas, William Hare
Presented by Sara Gaskell, Manager Lancashire Skills and Employment Hub
SME Employer of the Year.
Winner: Bambers Building Contractors
Sponsored by North West Apprentice Ambassador Network.
Presented by Alys Reeves, Spire Healthcare and Co-Chair of the NWAAN
Large Employer of the Year
Winner: OCU Group
Presented by Chris Havard – Career Development Manager
Highly Commended awarded to Essity UK
Training Provider / Programme of the Year
Presented by host Neetal Parekh