Carlisle teenager Josh Kirkwood has secured his dream job – and proved that there’s nothing like persistence.

Josh, 16, secured an apprenticeship with Penrith-based homebuilder Genesis Homes after months of daily phone calls and emails.

He was so determined to become an apprentice that he emailed, called and texted office manager Amanda Drelincourt nearly every day between March and last month, despite being told there was little chance of an opening, especially as he was still only 15 at the time.

“He was driving me mad!’ Amanda said.

“He’s the most enthusiastic boy, and for his age, it’s amazing. It was worth taking all those calls just to hear his reaction when he finally got the job. I’m really pleased for him.”

Beginning next month, Josh will undertake his apprentice work initially on Genesis Homes’ development in Wigton.

He will attend Carlisle College one day a week as part of his two-year level two construction operations and groundworks apprenticeship course.

Josh attended Newman School in Carlisle.

Living with his dad and three brothers, Josh has been planning this career move since year nine, inspired by his uncle who works in construction.

Josh said: “I really like the idea of a hands-on job where I get the chance to do something different every day. I don’t want a boring job.”

Nicky Gordon, managing director of Genesis Homes, said: “It’s great to see such perseverance, especially in someone so young. I’m pleased to welcome Josh as our new construction apprentice and look forward to seeing his skills develop as he contributes to building our high-quality new homes in Cumbria.”