A FORMER West Craven High School pupil who chose the apprentice route in her career with Barnoldswick bed manufacturers Silentnight has received a distinction on her college course.

Chelsea Parker, 24, of Earby, is is a key member of the new product innovation team at the firm, one of the country’s biggest bed manufacturers.

She started her career there as a 'Themis Apprentice' in 2011, manufacturing mattresses, and says she is developing her prospects within Silentnight through further degree-level study.

Chelsea said: “Design has always been my strong point. I studied art and design at Craven College straight after finishing school.

“I chose the apprenticeship route because it offered me a wide range of opportunities and the potential to shape my own future in the work environment.”

She has received her distinction in her HNC in 'Furniture Design and Make' at the University of Central Lancashire in Burnley.

She has previously been awarded a City and Guilds Medal for Excellence and a Lancashire Business Award for outstanding work.