Simon Bailes Peugeot technician Kris Collinson has become 'one of the youngest' to achieve the French manufacturer's master technician status.

The 24-year-old has progressed through the ranks at Simon Bailes Peugeot, having started out as an apprentice with the company in 2012, and he is currently based at the Northallerton dealership.

PSA Group’s apprentice assessor, Malcolm Pitman, said: “I visited Kris at his dealership every 10 to 12 weeks, and during that time I got to know him quite well.

"It was apparent from the early stages that Kris was an exceptional apprentice who was destined for a bright future. I was impressed with his level of maturity and how his new-found confidence could help both staff and customers.”

After finishing his three-year apprenticeship at Simon Bailes’ Guisborough dealership, he completed his service and maintenance training in 2017, becoming a technician, and qualified as a diagnostic technician in 2018.

Collinson said: “I have enjoyed my time within the industry and at Simon Bailes, which supported me throughout my apprenticeship, as I have taken on additional roles at the company and, crucially, during my various qualifications.

“I am now looking to continue my progression within the company and build on this career milestone.”

PSA Group’s apprentice programme assistant manager Simon Foster said: “Kris always stood out from the group with his attitude towards his own personal development and never cut any corners.

"He always produced work of the highest standards. As Kris excelled through the programme, he never shied away from helping others in the group when he felt it was necessary.

“I am not surprised to see Kris achieve Master Technician status, in such a time frame, and he is definitely a shining example of what can be achieved when applying an excellent attitude.”

Simon Bailes Peugeot’s chief executive, Simon Bailes, said: “Kris is a talented colleague and technician, who is very deserving of this significant Peugeot UK accreditation.

“We are very supportive of our staff and provide them with the opportunities to develop in their roles as well as gain relevant, industry-standard qualifications, and Kris is a perfect example of this.

“His commitment and dedication to his role, and subsequent success, embodies our core values of maintaining high standards, ensuring that we provide an excellent customer experience.

“I’d like to congratulate Kris on this latest success, which is a fantastic achievement, especially as he is one of the youngest people in the UK to receive this qualification.”

Pictured (L): Mark Godson, aftersales learning & development manager, The Performance Academy, PSA Group, Kris Collinson and Paul Wiffen, service  manager at Simon Bailes Peugeot