A BORDERS apprentice has been honoured at a Downing Street reception for young employees across the UK.

Emily Balderston received the invitation for her work as a trainee dental nurse at North Bridge Dental in Hawick.

She was nominated to attend the event at No10 by her local MP John Lamont, who praised her commitment and dedication.

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The member for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk, said Emily is already having a positive impact on many patients in Hawick and the wider community, which has been recognised by her employer.

North Bridge Dental in Hawick is part of the Pain Free Dental Group which employs a number of apprentices and trainees across Scotland.

Mr Lamont said: “I was thrilled to nominate Emily to attend this event after hearing about how well she is doing as a trainee dental nurse.

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“Her commitment and dedication is impressive. It was a pleasure to speak with her and I wish her all the best as she progresses in her profession.

“Apprenticeships can provide excellent opportunities for people to get ahead and learn new skills.

“I would encourage anyone looking to advance in their career to consider looking into a training placement.

“Thank you to North Bridge Dental and all the other local businesses who help to provide these first-class opportunities.”

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Gillian Keegan MP said: “John Lamont MP is a huge champion for skills in the Scottish Borders.

“It was fantastic to celebrate the brilliant work going on across the country to develop the skills our local communities need to grow the economy.

"It was wonderful to meet providers, businesses and those doing apprenticeships at Downing Street."