Apprentices at BAE Systems are set to craft one-of-a-kind trophies for the Lancashire Tourism Awards 2023

A group of talented second-year Craft Apprentices at BAE Systems are busy creating 24 handmade trophies for the Lancashire Tourism Awards 2023.

During a Marketing Lancashire visit to the BAE Academy for Skills and Knowledge (ASK) at Salmesbury, the team admired some of the practice creations from apprentices on display and suggested a collaboration to mark this year’s awards.

BAE Systems is now the official Trophy Sponsor for the awards taking place in February 2024. The Lancashire Tourism Awards is the biggest and only county-wide celebration of tourism excellence in Lancashire.

The unique metal rose sculptures, made from brass and copper, will be placed on plinths and presented to the winners at the awards ceremony in February 2024. The ceremony aims to recognise the exceptional contribution of a diverse range of businesses and individuals to the tourism sector of the county.

The metal roses are now being created by the apprentices, as part of a stretch project, in addition to their course activities, and will be ready in January. Once qualified the apprentice team will use their skills in the machining, toolmaking and manufacturing divisions of BAE Systems.

Eddy Adair, one of BAE Systems Air’s People Directors, and Lancashire Ambassador, said: “We take great pride in our apprentices and all that they achieve. It’s inspiring to see them put the vital skills they’re learning into such a great initiative which celebrates Lancashire. As a major employer here and a committed Lancashire Ambassador, we support the championing of the county as a great place to live and work.  

“Our sponsorship demonstrates our dedication to supporting the Lancashire visitor economy. We understand the crucial role it plays in the levelling up agenda, particularly in improving health and wellbeing, fostering local pride, and contributing to job retention and attraction by enhancing skills and employment opportunities.”

Vikki Harris, Marketing and Partnerships Director, Marketing Lancashire said: “BAE Systems is one of the county’s largest employers and this investment of time into the creation of these stunning pieces is a continuing commitment to its role as a Lancashire Ambassador.

“The trophies are a unique addition to this year’s awards programme and it’s another way in which to salute the emerging talent of the county for the winners and those who have crafted these bespoke pieces.”

BAE joins a line-up of other sponsors and supporting businesses including headline sponsor UCLan, destination sponsor Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and other leading Lancashire businesses including Blackpool & The Fylde College, Burnley FC Conferences and Events, DFC, Harrison Drury Solicitors, Insight6, Lancashire Business View, Lancaster University Management School, Links Signs and Graphics, Northern Print Distribution Ltd, The Centre For Family Business at Lancaster University, The Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business, Total Foodservice and Brindle Distillery.

The Lancashire Tourism Awards 2023 ceremony will take place at King George’s Hall in Blackburn on Tuesday 6 February 2024. Tickets are now on sale here.

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