Sir Alan Sugar’s helper Nick Hewer has blasted Apprentice reject Howard Ebison for lacking in “courage and flair”.

“When I asked if he thought he was a ‘brave warrior’ his face betrayed, I thought, the realisation that he is, in fact, lacking in ambition and courage – something Sir Alan has in spades,” the former PR boss told The Mirror.

“He’s a decent young man but is destined for now to remain in middle management because he lacks that vital entrepreneurial flair.”