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The Apprentice final 2017: Sarah Lynn and James White are named first ever joint winners in shock twist

Winners: Both James White and Sarah Lynn have earned Lord Sugar's investment: BBC/Freemantle Media
Winners: Both James White and Sarah Lynn have earned Lord Sugar's investment: BBC/Freemantle Media

Lord Sugar has named Sarah Lynn and James White the first ever joint winners of The Apprentice 2017 following a surprise twist in the finale.

After challenging the last two candidates to launch their businesses with the help of their former competitors, he struggled to decide who to invest in.

In a lengthy boardroom deliberation, Sugar opted to go into business with both Lynn and White - giving them each £250,000 for their respective digital marketing and sweets companies.

He explained: “James – crowded market, but I’ve had some experience with a similar person of a similar age who is making a lot, a lot of money.”

“Sarah – sweets. I don’t have any experience of your business, ok. I’m going to say that I’m a gambler and I’ve always been a gambler in business.”

“This particular year, I’m going to double my investment. I’m going to start a business with both of you.”

It’s the first time in the show’s 13-year history that Sugar has opted to invest in both finalists.

White described the decision as a ‘dream come true’.

“I have always, since I was a young boy, looked up to Lord Sugar as a businessman, and to now be his business partner is literally a dream that I’ve always had and for that dream to come true… it’s just very, very humbling,” he commented.

Meanwhile, Lynn said she was looking forward to a ‘great adventure’ working with her new business partner.

“It feels incredible. I’m just shocked and amazed and so proud that Lord Sugar found enough in both of us to make a double investment. The future is definitely sweet, and it’s going to be a great adventure.”

The Apprentice returns to BBC One in 2018.