Thomas Betts, a Level 3 NVQ refrigeration student in his final year, was nominated for the award which is given annually by the nation's leading Refrigeration and Air Conditioning organ by his training provider, The Grimsby Institute. He scooped the gong after receiving glowing references from his employer Crowther and Shaw and from his customers.

"Its great to have won the award", said Thomas. "Not only is it recognition of the hard work I"ve put into my course and career, it is also a well respected award in the industry so it can only stand me in good stead".

Award Motoring since 1993

The RAC student of the year awards was launched in 1993 in association with RAC magazine to promote training and education in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector. Entrants are narrowed down to ten outstanding finalists with the winner and two runners up receiving cash prizes.

Thomas had to prepare a statement about himself and explain his reasons for wanting to pursue a career in refrigeration and air conditioning (as if any explanation were necessary) before progressing to the national finals held at the Belfry hotel in Sutton Coldfield.

This year's success marks the third year running that the Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education has been associated with the winning candidate. As such, the college has received over £10,000 worth of equipment to aid the training of future students and £30,000 from local businesses looking to invest in the next generation of refrigeration and air conditioning professionals.

Michael Lloyd

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