Fuso has named technician Liam Walker, 26, as Britain’s first Canter technician of the year.

Walker competed against nearly 70 technicians who entered the competition. They were tested in their practical skills and technical knowledge.

His prize will be a trip to Japan, where he will visit Fuso’s headquarters in Kanagawa, near Tokyo.

Mercedes-Benz’s franchised UK dealer network is responsible for sales and support of the Fuso Canter range - Walker works at the West Thurrock branch of Mercedes-Benz Dealer S & B Commercials.

He joined S & B Commercials straight from sixth form in 2009, and served a three-year apprenticeship followed by another year of more advanced training.

Tony Thrower, aftersales director at S & B Commercials, said: “From day one his commitment to the job and to our customers has been outstanding.

“Liam has put in countless hours of his own time in studying and is already qualified to diagnostic technician level for both trucks and vans, which is pretty well unheard of for one so young.

“He thoroughly deserves his success.”

Walker said: “I had intended to go to university to study architecture, but decided I was more interested in trucks than buildings.

“When the opportunity to join the Mercedes-Benz training scheme came along I didn’t hesitate – it’s a fantastic way to start a career, and the prospects are as great as you want to make them.”

Mike Evans, truck technical team leader at Mercedes-Benz, said: “The standard of competition was remarkably high and all the entrants can be rightly proud of their performances.”