Two young dog groomers have had the best possible start to their careers as the company they work for has been highly commended in the National Apprenticeships Awards.

After winning the Newcomer Employer of the Year SME category at the regional finals, the staff at Paw-fect headed to Birmingham’s LG Arena for the national ceremony.

The business, based in Barkingside but serving customers all over the region, has Dagenham apprentices Kirsty Leeder, 20, and 19-year-old Carla Garey on its books, washing and styling the dogs of east London.

Owner Stacy Ismael said: “We are completely ecstatic about being highly commended in such a prestigious national award.

“It is a fantastic achievement for me and the girls and is testament to the hard work that goes on at Paw-fect.”

Carla and Kirsty are employed through the Writtle College apprenticeships team, which offers students a way into a variety of professions including agriculture, veterinary nursing and floristry.

Stacy added: “It’s my belief an apprenticeship programme is the perfect solution for staffing a micro business and I’m extremely proud I have offered two young people the opportunity to train for their chosen career.

“It has been a joy to see them grow as individuals in the workplace.”

Vicky Hitcham, who manages the Writtle College apprenticeships team, said: “It has been rewarding supporting Stacy as she expanded the business by training dedicated and enthusiastic apprentices like Kirsty and Carla.”