The search for Scotland's top building apprentice has been launched this week.

James Birnie and last year's apprentice of the year, Peter MacLeod, opened nominations for the tenth annual James Birnie Awards for Craft Excellence at the Town House, Aberdeen.

The awards, run by the Scottish Building Apprenticeship and Training Council (SBATC), are 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.

In addition to the much coveted apprentice of the year award, nominations are also being taken for the adult apprentice of the year award.

The James Birnie Award for Craft Excellence was the brainchild of the former President of the Scottish Building Federation, James Birnie MBE.

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Mr Birnie said: "I'm delighted that we're launching the 10th annual awards to find Scotland's top apprentice in the traditional craft trades.

"Its longevity is testament to the hard work and dedication shown by Scotland’s apprentices, young and old."

Michael Levack, Chief Executive of the Scottish Building Federation and Employers' Secretary for the SBATC, said: "Now more than ever, as the construction industry faces continued challenges, there is a need to recognise and celebrate the talent we’ve got.

"We are calling on all apprentices, young and old to enter the 10th annual James Birnie Awards – look around and see if there is anyone in your workplace who deserves the title."

Twenty year old Peter MacLeod was crowned last year's apprentice of the year for his enthusiasm and excellence in the stonemason craft. He works for Laing Traditional Masonary Ltd in Castle Fraser and is currently serving the third year of his apprenticeship.

Nominations are being taken online at www.jamesbirnieaward.co.uk by contacting the Registrar of SBATC at [email protected] or by calling 0131 556 8866.

The closing date for submissions is the 18th September 2009.

(GK/BMcC)