Chris meats all the targets to be a cut above the rest!

Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill praised the hard work of the CAFRE Level 3 Food and Drink Apprentice which helped him secure this top award.

The Minister said: “It is so encouraging to see the dedication and motivation of such up-and-coming talent being recognised by the industry. I know Christopher has studied diligently and works very hard his job in K&G McAtamney Butchers in Ballymena, where he excels in customer services and has introduced new recipes, tasting sessions and meal suggestions for customers.

“It is very rewarding for me to see his determination and commitment paying off. He is certainly a cut above the rest. I send him my warmest congratulations and wish him and the other Food & Drink Apprentices every success as they move forward to succeed as the next generation of food industry professionals.”

Christopher’s mentor and assessor from CAFRE, Nicola Kerr, said he is a great student to work especially when applying his experience to the quality and marketing modules.

“Christopher has really embraced the opportunity offered through the Apprenticeship programme. His enthusiasm and thirst for knowledge make him a worthy winner of this award,” she said.

The award, sponsored by The National Federation of Meat & Food Traders, was presented to Christopher by the Institute of Meat and Worshipful Company of Butchers during a gala luncheon at Tallow Chandlers Hall in the City of London.

After his fillet of beef lunch Christopher, who has had a Saturday job in K&G McAtamney since he was 12 said: “I’m really delighted to have received this award. I know there was a lot of tough competition so it really is an honour. I want to thank CAFRE for nominating me and Nicola and the rest of the Loughry staff for all their help and support.”