A 26-year-old plumber with Freebridge Community Housing has been named an apprentice of the year by the Chartered Instiute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering.

Zoe Lee won the award for the high standard of her work at the College of West Anglia.

Zoe, who turned to plumbing in 2009 after a stint as an office worker, said: 'I'm thrilled to be given this award.

'I really enjoy my work and my colleagues have been so helpful and supportive since I began my apprenticeship. I'm looking forward to finishing my apprenticeship and becoming a fully-fledged plumber.'

Zoe was presented with a certificate, an illustrated history of the institute an a �50 voucher - to spend on plumbing supplies.

Abigail Ellis, Freebridge's executive director (operations) said: 'We're so proud of Zoe's achievement. She has a great work ethic and has proven herself to be committed and hardworking throughout the course of her apprenticeship.'

Zoe was nominated by Nicola Pocklington, from the College of West Anglia. Her nomination said: 'Throughout her apprenticeship she has demonstrated commitment, enthusiasm and desire to ahieve. Her employers, colleagues and customers all speak very highly of Zoe's attiude and ability.'