Apprentice winner Michelle Dewberry visited West Cumbria to help inspire the next generation of engineers and technical experts.

The reality TV star, who won the 2006 series of BBC show fronted by Lord Alan Sugar, is an ambassador for University Technical Colleges.

She visited Lillyhall's Energy Coast UTC to host workshops and talk to students about the benefits of a technical education.

She said: "I was delighted to attend Energy Coast UTC and I'm proud to be a UTC ambassador. They offer a way of thinking I have been advocating for a very long time.

"It's been great to talk to the students – they are a great bunch.

At an afternoon tea laid on in Michelle's honour, she sat and spoke to youngsters about her experiences and asked them about their aspirations.

Students Teagan Hall and Shannon Nesbitt, both 17 of Workington, and Ellie Holmes, 17, of Whitehaven and Grace Fitzpatrick, 16, of Whitehaven, met Michelle before they heard her official talk.

They spoke about everything from confidence and social media to women in industry.

Shannon said: "It's good to have someone of her stature here and she gave us a real insight into what she does."

Parents and employers who work closely with the UTC were also invited and representatives from firms including Iggesund, Sellafield and Kaefer Ltd attended.

Cherry Tingle, principal of Energy Coast UTC, said: "Michelle has been inspiring. She spoke about her difficult childhood and that resonated with some of our pupils.

"One of them went up to her after the talk and said Michelle had made her want to work harder. I am delighted that she visited."

After her visit, Michelle tweeted: "Really enjoyed talking to parents, staff, employers and pupils at Energy Coast UTC. These schools are fabulous."

Earlier this month, Claire Hensman, Lord Lieutenant of Cumbria, visited the UTC.

She said: "It was a real pleasure to talk with the students, seeing how well motivated they were, and mature.

"Everyone in the UTC has a chance to realise their potential: just what they need on a personal level but also so welcome to local employers who are looking for skilled, work-ready recruits.

"I was greatly encouraged to hear of the involvement in and sponsorship by some employers, who of course will be able to have a great source of talented employees.

"The UTC has come a long way in a short time and is now a really exciting place to be. I will be watching progress with interest!”