A DETERMINED woman from Chard is proving a real bright spark as she makes waves in the traditionally male-oriented world of electrical engineering.

Lucy Suggett, 32, a qualified electrician, now works with her father, also an electrician.

Training company JTL has selected her as an ambassador in its ambassador programme, designed to increase the numbers of girls entering building services engineering apprenticeships, as electricians, heating and ventilating or plumbing apprentices.

JTL has recruited 14 young women from among its ranks, either currently in apprenticeships or recently qualified, and supported by JTL.

Ms Suggett said: “I had been a restaurant manager for a large hotel chain but found the role wasn’t fulfilling – and it certainly wasn’t offering me any real challenges.

“I spoke to my dad about how unhappy I was and he suggested I work with him. I come from a large family and my dad always wanted a son.

“I was the last daughter so he treated me a bit like a son and was delighted when after a lengthy chat I agreed to work with him.”

Her dad Gordon has renamed his business Gordon Suggett and Daughter to recognise the fact Lucy is an integral part of the business and there will now be a natural progression for the family firm.

Lucy added: “I decided an apprenticeship was right for me and I’ve never looked back on that decision.

“For me, the chance to earn while I learned made huge sense and I’m delighted to have been selected to be one of this year’s JTL Ambass-adors.”