A BARNSLEY College construction apprentice has beaten off competition from across Yorkshire to take top spot in a regional contest.
Charlie Crossland achieved first place in The Guild of Bricklayers Yorkshire Region Brickwork Competition.
The annual competition invites students from colleges across the Yorkshire region to demonstrate their skills in three categories: senior, junior and new to the trade (less than six months of experience). Charlie participated in the new to trade category.
Charlie said: “It feels pretty good to win, especially since I don’t get to work with the trowel much at my job. I thought there would be people much better than me.
“In the competition, we had to build a model based on a drawing provided by the judges. We were expected to complete it to the highest standard possible, ensuring everything was gauged, level, and plumb. The drawing included all the measurements and specifications, such as a requirement for a half-round finish.
“Leading up to the competition, I tried to practice as much as possible by building old models from previous years at home with some bricks I got. I only had three weeks’ notice, but I really enjoyed it and hope to be selected for future competitions.”
Charlie’s win earned him a bag of tools and a shield that the college will keep for a year. Despite only having five months of experience in the trade, he showed remarkable skill.
Sean James, an apprenticeships trainer, added: “I am very happy for Charlie and look forward to seeing what he will achieve with more training in future competitions.”
The winners will be invited to the national final, which will be held at Sunderland College in June.
