A Leominster garage is celebrating another fantastic achievement after one of its technicians, Owen Lloyd of Bodenham, was named Motor Vehicle Apprentice of the Year at the prestigious Herefordshire Ludlow and North Shropshire College Apprenticeship Awards held on 19th November 2024.
In addition to Owen’s success, Oldfields Garage itself was honoured with the Apprentice Employer of the Year Award, recognising its exceptional commitment to developing young talent in the automotive industry.
The awards ceremony, held at Hereford Campus, saw Owen’s hard work and dedication to his apprenticeship recognised by his assessor and tutors. As part of the Oldfields team, Owen has proven himself to be an asset, impressing both colleagues and customers alike with his skills and enthusiasm.
“Owen is a shining example of the future of the automotive industry,” said Tim Benson, Managing Director at Oldfields Garage. “We are incredibly proud of him for receiving this well-deserved recognition. He has shown tremendous promise, and his achievements reflect his commitment to excellence in his trade.”
Earlier this year, Owen made headlines by becoming the youngest vehicle technician in the UK to achieve an Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) Level 3 qualification in hybrid and electric vehicles at just 19 years of age.
“I’ve learned so much and had so many opportunities to develop my skills, especially in electric vehicles, which I’m really passionate about,” said Owen. “I’m grateful to everyone at Oldfields for their support, and it’s great to see my hard work paying off. I’m excited for what’s ahead and can’t wait to keep learning and growing.”
The garage’s recognition as Apprentice Employer of the Year highlights its ongoing dedication to providing valuable training and career development opportunities for those entering the automotive sector.
Phil Dallow, Motor Vehicle Apprentice Assessor at Herefordshire Ludlow and North Shropshire College, said: “Owen has shown exceptional dedication and aptitude throughout his apprenticeship, consistently going above and beyond to develop his skills.
“Oldfields Garage has provided him with an excellent foundation to grow and thrive, offering outstanding support and opportunities for their apprentices. Their commitment to nurturing young talent makes them truly deserving of the Apprentice Employer of the Year award.”
This latest award follows three major accolades for the business in the last year alone, including being named Garage of the Year at the 2024 British Independent Garage of the Year Awards.
“At Oldfields Garage, we believe in nurturing and developing the next generation of skilled technicians,” said Tim. “It’s been a pleasure watching Owen grow, and we’re committed to continuing to offer top-quality apprenticeships to help young people succeed in this rewarding industry.”
Claire Lloyd, Owen’s mum, said she was immensely proud of her son’s achievements after attending the awards ceremony with Owen’s father and his employer, Tim Benson.
“Seeing Owen named Motor Vehicle Apprentice of the Year was such a proud moment for our family,” she said. “He’s worked so hard to get here, and it was wonderful to celebrate his success with Tim, who has been so supportive.”
Based in Enterprise Park, the family-run business has built a strong reputation as a trusted independent garage. Its commitment to fostering new talent and its ongoing involvement in the local community continues to set it apart.
The multi-award-winning garage provides MOT testing, servicing, diagnostics, and repairs for a wide range of cars and vans, including electric vehicles.
