Second year scholar Luke Booker has been named the Apprentice of the Year after topping a vote that included all members of staff at Thorp Arch.

The award was created in the memory of Richard Forth and past winners include Sam Byram, Lewis Walters and Alex Cairns.

The 18-year-old featured for both the Under-18s (19 appearances) and the Under-21s (eight appearances), with the youngster progressing throughout the season.

“It feels really good being named the Apprentice of the Year,” said the youngster. “I had a bit of a struggle during my first year as a scholar but this year I have had loads more game time.

“I couldn’t of done it without everyone around me, my team-mates are a great set of lads. The staff are great as well. It is a real honour.

“I have played for both the 18s and the 21s this season and there are differences between the two. The games in the Under-21s are faster paced and I think that I have done alright for the 21s.

“Both teams have been mixed and matched this season, each game has had a different side out. To say we never had a consistent team we have done really well this season.”

The young defender spoke of his ambition to become a first team player in the future but says he wants to remain grounded and take it one step at a time.

“I want to keep playing Under-21s football,” explained Luke. “Then in a couple of years go into the first team.

“I want to take things one step at a time. I don’t want to seem ‘big time’ though. I do want to crack on and develop as a player.

“This is a club that allows you to develop as a player and it gives you your chance. Like I have already said, I wasn’t getting much game time last year but I took my chance this season.”