A 23-year-old from Ystradgynlais has claimed gold at the WorldSkills UK National Finals in Manchester.

Victoria Steele, who trains with NPTC Group of Colleges, triumphed in Automotive Refinishing, securing her place as the best in the UK in her field.

The finals, held in venues across Manchester from November 19 - 22, saw more than 400 young people from Wales, England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland compete in a series of vocational challenges to be named the best in the UK.

“I am thrilled to have won gold,” said Victoria.

“Being recognised as the best in the UK in my field feels amazing.”

Welsh competitors claimed an incredible 70 medals at the SkillBuild and WorldSkills UK National Finals, setting the stage for when Wales hosts the event next year.

“The whole journey has been such an amazing experience, from the regional heats all the way to the national final,” added Victoria.

“I feel so grateful to my training provider, and so proud I could represent Wales in this way.”

Partly funded by the Welsh Government and run by a dedicated network of colleges, work-based learning providers and employer-led organisations, the competitions aim to inspire and upskill future generations by developing young people’s vocational skills while celebrating their achievements. 

Welsh Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant said: “I congratulate Team Wales on their remarkable success at the WorldSkills UK and SkillBuild National Finals.

“Once again they demonstrated their excellence, emerging triumphant with an impressive haul of medals, highlighting the dedication and talent within our country.”

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK added: "Being named the best in your skill is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication of teachers in our colleges, universities and training providers, who are the bedrock of our skills systems across the UK."