A YOUNG painter and decorator is hoping to win a national award.

Kristian Pilmer will compete in the Dulux Decorator Centres’ 2013 Apprentice of the Year competition at Sandwell College, West Bromwich, in June.

The 20-year-old New College Durham student qualified by winning the North-East heat at York College on Thursday, May 9.

He said: “The competition was tough but I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it.

“I’m sure the final will be just as challenging, if not more, so I can’t wait.”

Mr Pilmer has already won £100 in vouchers, a certificate and a goody bag. The national winner will get £1,000 and various other prizes.