Scotland's apprentice of the year was launched today when the Scottish Building Apprenticeship and Training Council (SBATC) opened the lines to receive on-line nomination for this year's James Birnie Award for Craft Excellence.

The award is the only Scotland wide honour to recognise dedication, talent and initiative by Scottish construction apprentices in the traditional craft trades such as joinery, plastering and bricklaying.

Last year's winner, Mark Lynch of City Building (Glasgow) LLP, said: "To be named as last year's apprentice of the year was a great honour. When I started my apprenticeship four years seemed like a lifetime. Now I have a well paid job in an industry I enjoy and with a company that has supported me all the way."

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Michael Levack, Chief Executive of the Scottish Building Federation and Employers' Secretary for the SBATC said: "The award is the only award in Scotland that recognises the hard work and dedication of Scotland's apprentices, young and old. Mark has been an outstanding ambassador for our industry and is proof positive that our brightest youngsters do not have to go to university to find a rewarding career.

"Now more than ever construction needs new talent. Just nominating an apprentice for the James Birnie Award can be a huge confidence booster. Our new website makes it easier than ever before and I hope more companies than ever before will take the time to put their candidates forward for the 2008 award."

Employers and Training Providers can nominate their candidates by visiting www.jamesbirnieaward.co.uk or by contacting the Registrar of SBATC at r[email protected].

The closing date for nominations is Friday, September 5 at 5.00 pm.

(GK/JM)