Lord Sugar has split from 2015 Apprentice winner Joseph Valente after investing £250,000 in his plumbing business.

The Hackney-born businessman announced on Friday he has left ImpraGas, which was jointly owned by the pair, who remain on friendly terms.

Lord Sugar said: “Since winning the Apprentice in 2015 with the prize investment of £250,000, Joseph, along with guidance from myself and my advisers, has transformed ImpraGas into a fast growing gas boiler installation company.

“I’ll still be on hand to offer any help and advice required. I wish Joseph and ImpraGas all the very best for the future and will follow their progress with much affection.”

Mr Valente said he “could not have asked for a better partner” than Lord Sugar, and that he is confident ImpraGas will continue to grow.

Of the 12 UK Apprentice winners, just five are still working with Lord Sugar, the BBC reports.