Alan McKeon, from Co.Longford has been named as the winner of the best Automobile Apprentice in the country at the 55th annual National Skills Championships, hosted by Cork Institute of Technology.

The award was made after a tough competition between five talented competitors, who were chosen from top apprentices around the country. Each was put through a gruelling three days of rigorous testing by expert examiners.

Alan has been working with his father, Hugh McKeon, since the start of his apprenticeship. On being presented with the award Alan commented, "I can't believe it, all of the other competitors were so talented.”

Ireland's Automobile Apprentices have had an outstanding record of success in the WorldSkills competition having won 4 gold and 1 bronze medal in recent years. Alan hopes to be eligible for further testing and possible selection for the WorldSkills 2013 Competition which takes place in Germany.

Alan Nolan, Director General of SIMI said "As with all industries, the number of apprentices has dropped considerably in recent years and with so many young people in particular forced to emigrate, this competition is crucial in recognising the level of talent in our industry."