A TEAM of apprentices are in the running for a prestigious award for their campaign launched in memory of an Ulverston schoolboy.
The group, from GSK Ulverston, have worked steadfastly since April to spread awareness of asthma among young people across the area.
It followed the tragic death of 11-year-old football enthusiast Josh West in April 2016.
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Now, the team are one of just eight nationwide to have reached the finals of the Brathay Apprentice Challenge, which could see them crowned apprentice team of the year.
They face a tough four-day test at the Brathay Trust's headquarters in June.
The campaign has seen the apprentices give presentations on asthma in schools, colleges, sports clubs and youth organisations across the area to make children and those who work with young people aware of the symptoms of the condition.
They also provide advice on what people can do to help if they witness someone suffering an asthma attack.
The campaign has been backed by Josh's parents, Lee West and Nicola Lancaster, and Dr Mohamed Olabi, a consultant paediatrician from the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust.
GSK apprentice Kelly Stokes, 19, a supply chain apprentice from Walney, said: "A lot of people at GSK Ulverston knew Josh and his family, and we were all very moved by his story.
"We’ve had a lot of support for the asthma awareness campaign from staff, local people and Josh’s family.
"Although the asthma awareness campaign started as part of the Brathay Apprentice Challenge, and while we are really pleased to have reached the final, the campaign has grown into something bigger for us.
"We want to do something that will be of real long-term benefit to our local community."
Terry Sandham , GSK Ulverston apprentice programme manager said: "We are really proud of the fact that our apprentices have been recognised for all their hard work, and for the strength of the asthma awareness campaign.
"They have got very involved in the campaign, and it really matters to them."
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