The winner of the Top Technician 2013 competition has been announced. Steve Smith, of Hills Toyota in Woodford Green, Essex, was a finalist in the competition in 2010 and 2011 and this year won. He was presented with a cheque for £2500, diagnostic equipment and professional tools at the awards ceremony at Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey.

Steve has been a mechanic since he left school, aged 16. “I’m a bit shell-shocked but really happy,” said Steve. “This year was my third appearance in the finals, so I guess it only goes to prove the old adage – if at first you don’t succeed, try, try, try again!”

Adding her congratulations to Steve on his success, Top Technician 2013 project manager, Nicola St Clair, said: “The annual Top Technician competition is open to experienced motor mechanics in all sectors of the industry, whether they are working in franchised dealerships, independent garages, fast fit outlets or even as mobile mechanics.

“It is the ultimate, individual test for a professional and every year attracts entries from almost a thousand of the nation’s most skilled vehicle servicing experts. It’s the one they all want to win and carries enormous prestige and kudos.”