A WEST-LINTON student has scooped a top innovation prize at the UK-wide Future Industry Leaders Awards (FILA), which celebrate the achievements of 17 to 21 year-olds in the engineering sector.

Ross Gardiner was put forward after receiving recognition during a work placement at Edinburgh-based aerospace, defence and security company Leonardo.

The former Peebles High School pupil said: "Engineering requires tenacity. But I think that’s what makes it so rewarding. 

"My project this year has given me valuable insight into how I can apply my own skills to a real, challenging problem. 

"In Leonardo I was exposed to countless industry experts. I found that experienced colleagues are a priceless learning resource and something I will miss dearly upon finishing my placement," he added.

"I’m grateful for all the opportunities I’ve been given and the mentoring I’ve received."

During his paid year-long work placement scheme organised by the Engineering Development Trust, Ross was given the chance to develop software and he secured his place in the FILA 2016 line-up when he won the Scottish national final of the Year in Industry programme in July.

Ross’s mentor at Leonardo, Lead Radar Systems Engineer Paul Rose, said: "Ross has been a fantastic student, showing a real determination to solve a problem that many thought couldn’t be done.

"He’s done a remarkable job for us and his work will now be taken forward by another student starting in August. 

"It is a real example of how anyone with the right attitude can succeed, if they are placed in the right environment."

A panel of judges received presentations from all the finalists about their projects before making their decisions. 

Following his success at FILA 2016, Ross has been accepted to study Electronics and Software Engineering at the University of Glasgow.