MOST offices or factories will have a whip-round for a colleague’s birthday, but Peugeot dealership apprentice Alex Quick got more than just a card or a cake for his 18th – he got a new car instead.

The team at the Fish Brothers garage on Great Western Way clubbed together to give Alex the car as a surprise, and to say thank you for being such a hardworking member of the team.

Alex, who had just returned from holiday in Spain on the day of the presentation, said: “I was really surprised, it was a big shock.

“My dad and my girlfriend were here to surprise me as well, so it was a bit surreal.

“It’s a little hatchback, and I’m very happy with what I’ve got,” said Alex, who is looking to use the Ford Ka as a project car to practice his skills on.

The hardworking apprentice was grateful for the new motor and said he wouldn’t have expected a high-powered Ferrari. “Well...it would be nice, but they wouldn’t be able to afford that!” he joked.

Alex’s co-workers all chipped in £200 for the 18-year-old as a goodwill gesture for his hard work and dedication.

James Pittman, dealer principal at Peugeot Fish Brothers, said: “He had his own little car but it was at death’s door so we decided rather than just buying him some beer or cakes we could encourage him to practice on this throughout his apprenticeship and change the parts. It’s a good thing to encourage them to do that and support them the best we can.

“He hadn’t long passed his test and he’s been an excellent apprentice, so we thought he needed some recognition at how well he’s been doing.

Christian Hawkins, Alex’s service manager at the dealership, said: “Alex is a wonderful apprentice, he’s doing really really well. He’s got a budding career in front of him.

“He’s a keen role model for future apprentices coming into Fish Brothers. He’s keen to learn and works well with his colleagues and enjoys his job.”