Top class Torness apprentices graduate

A Midlothian woman has been singled out for a special honour at the annual graduation of Torness power station apprentices.

Lisa Hilferty (26), from Danderhall was named as the station’s Apprentice of Year as she completed four years of training.

Lisa said: “It is a real honour being chosen as Torness apprentice of the year. I have thoroughly enjoyed the last four years and look forward to further developing my skills and being part of the maintenance work management team.”

Covid-19 restrictions meant the usual formal ceremony which brings together apprentices from across EDF’s fleet of stations was cancelled and replaced with a smaller ceremony on-site.

In total five apprentices completed their qualification this year. Joining Lisa, were Murray Gilvray (21) from North Berwick, Connel McNeill (22) from Eyemouth, Thomas Summerfield (21) from Dunbar and Paige Gould (23) from Dalkeith.

At the ceremony, Station Director, Tam Al Bishawi, praised the dedication and challenge that the new recruits have brought to the business. The apprentices spent two years training at HMS Sultan in Portsmouth before completing their final two years back on site.

Acting Plant Manager Gordon McKenzie, said: “I started in the energy industry as an apprentice more than 40 years ago so I am proud to see the next generation of engineers, technicians and business managers starting out on their careers and to officially welcome them to the industry.”