A TRAINEE accountant from Worcester has won a major regional award.

Phil Redgate, who works at Bishop Fleming's office in College Yard, has taken trainee of the year at the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales West Midlands annual awards. He was also shortlisted for mentor of the year in the ICAEW's BASE scheme for chartered accountants' work with schools. Bishop Fleming was also shortlisted in a third category, the mid-tier firm of the year for the 2015 West Midlands Accountancy Awards.

Mr Redgate, who is 27-years-old and lives in Worcester, worked as a farmer and butcher, including spells in New Zealand and America, before securing a law degree. He joined Bishop Fleming three years ago and has already led audit teams for clients in defence, manufacturing, retail and charity sectors.

Partner in charge of Bishop Fleming's Worcester office Ian Smith said: "We are passionate about how we can help to boost the West Midlands' business prospects, and how our skilled team can help young people to embrace the world of business. Phil Redgate's award is the perfect reflection of our ethos, and highlights the achievements of our young team members".

Managing partner of Bishop Fleming Matthew Lee added: " said: "With a full spectrum of specialist departments, our young people have great opportunities to gain excellent experience and training with us. We are delighted to continue to attract people of Phil's calibre, give them rewarding careers and it is great to see this recognised by our Institute in the West Midlands".

The awards were announced at an event in Edgbaston, Birmingham