Posted: 21/09/11
James is one of Britain’s best!
A painting and decorating student at Vision West Notts has narrowly missed out on being named the country’s top tradesperson in UK construction skills challenge.
James Evans, from Sutton-in-Ashfield, scooped second place at the Skillbuild national painting and decorating final at the Leeds College of Building last week, having already won the Midlands regional heat in April.
The 21-year-old put his skills to the test in a series of competitions during the three-day challenge, held from 14-16 September, and walked away with a glass trophy and a cheque for £500.
Following his success, James, who is studying the painting and decorating level 3 diploma, said: “I was really surprised to come second. The challenges were quite tough at first but I soon got into the flow of it. I was just amazed to be in the top three.”
The college's programme area leader for painting and decorating, Dave Cope, said: “We’re incredibly proud of James’ achievement at national level. It’s certainly no surprise to us that he's reached these heights.
“James has a natural talent for his craft and the decorating team has worked very hard, often in their own time, to ensure he was well prepared and received extra training and advice.”
Skillbuild is run by ConstructionSkills - the sector skills council for the construction industry - and aims to find Britain’s best trainee tradesperson. The high-profile competition has been running for more than 20 years.
