AN apprentice has been hailed an IT troubleshooter by a North-East car parts firm.

Amaan Ayoub looks after IT at Nifco UK, based in Eaglescliffe, near Stockton, which makes plastic components from door handles to bumper brackets.

The Middlesbrough College IT network engineer apprentice spends his time at the company with mentor and IT engineer Steve Swindles.

The 19-year-old said his experiences are varied, ranging from technology in equipment moulding machines, to software and systems relied on by office staff.

He said: “The experience and training I’m getting at Nifco is second to none.

“It’s pretty hectic at the minute as we’re rolling out some improved anti-virus programmes and carrying out basic trouble-shooting while keeping the networks running smoothly and ironing out any issues.

He added: “Nifco is a great company to work for and the level of training I’m getting as well as the support from the wider team is amazing.

“I’d like to think I might be successful in securing a permanent job here when my apprenticeship comes to an end.”

John Tinkler, Nifco UK’s IT manager, added: "Amaan shone at the interview stage, and has already proven to be a valuable member of the IT team."

Nifco UK works with a number of car makers, including Sunderland-based Nissan, Ford, Jaguar Land Rover, Toyota and Honda.