A FLORIST in North Yorkshire has been praised for her employment of apprentices.

The Topiary Tree, which has two shops, one in Finkle Street, Malton, and the other in Church Street, Helmsley, received a special commendation in the small employers' category of the Modern Apprentice Awards.

The awards, organised by the Learning and Skills Council, were the first of their kind and were hosted by television presenter Carol Vorderman in London.

The judges were impressed by the integral role that apprenticeships had played in the success of The Topiary Tree. The owner-manager, Gemma Magson, 25, is an ex-apprentice herself and her first full-time employee is now completing an apprenticeship in floristry.

Gemma left Askham Bryan College with NVQ Level III in professional floristry and won the North Of England Modern Apprentice Of The Year award.

She said: "I don't understand why more employers don't take on apprentices. Employers benefit because the training gives young employees independence, confidence and knowledge.

"Employees also win. Look at my case. I've seen friends of mine finish university with £15,000 debts. Meanwhile, I have no debts and I have my own house and car. I am also qualified in my chosen career and am running my own business."

Updated: 11:29 Tuesday, June 29, 2004