AN APPRENTICE described as “a fast learner” is celebrating after scooping a top award.

Jakub Spiewak works as a craft apprentice at McMillan Coppersmiths and Fabricators in Prestonpans.

Last month, he was awarded the Emerging Talent – Apprentice of the Year prize in parent brand Briggs of Burton’s global team awards.

The accolade recognises Jakub’s commitment to supporting the traditional industry in handcrafting copper distillation equipment for many of the biggest distilled spirit brands.

The 21-year-old, who previously lived in Prestonpans but now lives in Tranent, was delighted with the award.

He said: “I have recently finished all my college-based work and I am now a full-time member of the team.

“The best thing about working for McMillan is being part of the process and seeing everything through from start to finish.

“I have acquired so many unique skills from the team and have had the opportunity to travel throughout Scotland installing and modifying our equipment.

“My goal is to progress into more senior roles at McMillan and pass down the skills and knowledge I have gained to the next generation of apprentices here.”

David Allan, operations manager at the Prestonpans Industrial Estate business, praised his colleague.

He said: “Jakub is an enthusiastic and hardworking craftsman and is an asset to our team.

“He is a fast learner and is driven to excel in his role.

“He gets on well with everyone in the team and has been instrumental in helping us deliver some of our biggest projects in Scotland, USA and Mexico over the last few years.”

The award success came at the same time as McMillan announced it was taking on four more apprentices.

The longstanding Scottish coppersmith still uses traditional handcrafted techniques.