A TEENAGER who has "given 110 per cent" to his work and studies has been named national Horticulturist Apprentice of the Year.

Patrick Middlehurst, pictured, works for Oxford City Council's parks department and was chosen for the award by Association for Public Service Excellence for his work in parks, gardens and play areas.

The 17-year-old from Slade Road, Didcot, joined the council last year.

He has worked on projects including installing a new play area in Horspath Road and planting and landscaping gardens at housing developments in Jericho and Headington. He has also maintained bowling greens, and cricket and football pitches.

He said: "I'm delighted to win this award and be recognised for the work I have achieved in the parks department.

"I really enjoy the varied work I have done with my apprenticeship and it's nice to be appreciated for a job I really enjoy."

The apprentice scheme is run in partnership with Abingdon and Witney College, which trained Patrick and awarded him an NVQ in Horticulture earlier this year. Lecturer Sandra Meaney said: "He is enthusiastic and has given 110 per cent to each department."