Construction trainees from across the UK battled it out last week to be crowned Britain's best young tradesperson in the national final of the UK's biggest skills competition, SkillBuild, which is organised by ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council for the industry.

The three day event, held at South Lanarkshire College, saw nearly 100 apprentices and young trades people from across the UK battling it out to be best tradesperson in 12 categories including carpentry, joinery, bricklaying and painting and decorating. The students celebrated their success post-event awards dinner at Hampden Park stadium.

The awards ceremony was opened by television presenter, Angelica Bell, who talked to the students about the importance of teamwork and showcasing your talents. The ceremony also featured a key note speech from Mark Farrar, Chief Executive of ConstructionSkills. Earlier in the week MSP and Minister for Schools and Skills Keith Brown, opened the competition.

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Philip Foulkes, who was a student at Coleg Menai was named Britain's best young plasterer. He spoke of his success at this year’s SkillBuild final: "I am very excited and surprised to have won a medal at the national final. I’ve really enjoyed taking part in this year’s SkillBuild competition, it has been hard work but it has definitely been worth it. I feel I have gained so much experience and it has really helped increase my confidence levels, as well as looking good on my CV.

"I would highly recommend other young trades people to look at entering next year’s competition."

As well as winning gold in plastering, Phillip also scooped the Frank Eaton trophy which commemorates Frank Eaton, a former apprentice who became chief executive and chairman of Barratt. The trophy goes to the apprentice who demonstrates outstanding performance and attitude during the competition.

Sponsors of this year's SkillBuild included Crown Paints Ltd, British Gypsum, Stabila and the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC).

(CD)