A MAUCHLINE teenager has been shortlisted for an award as top trainee in his chosen profession.

Cameron Howie, aged 18, is in contention for the Aquaculture Learner of the Year title which will be announced at a ceremony in the plush Dunblane Hydro Hotel.

The awards are staged by Lantra, a leading organisation for land-based and environmental training courses and qualifications, and take place on Thursday, March 1.

MC and host will be well-known farmer and stand-up comedian, Jim Smith, while main speaker will be Deacon Blue drummer and TV presenter, Dougie Vipond.

If successful, this will not be Cameron’s first honour as he previously won the BAGMA Shield for being the top student at Barony College in Dumfries.

He is doing a modern apprenticeship in land-based engineering there, while working for agricultural engineering firm, John H. McNae Ltd.

“I’m very happy to be shortlisted for a Lantra award. It’s always nice to be recognised for your efforts and this gives me the confidence that I have made the right career choice. I’d like to thank my employers at John H. McNae and tutors at Barony College for all their continued help and support,” Cameron said.

Lantra Scotland is the sector skills council for land-based, aquaculture and environmental conservation industries.