Andrew Ormerod, 18, won the gold award in the joinery category of the North West regional Skillbuild competition.

The youngster works for his dad at D & G Builders and Joiners Limited of Quarry Road, Chorley, and is just coming to the end of his three year apprenticeship.

His proud dad and managing director Damien Ormerod said: "He attends Preston College and every year they select who they believe to be the best in their field for the Skillbuild competition.

"Andrew has been picked every year, but this is the first time he's won it for the joinery side. He will now take part in the national finals later this year and the winner of that will represent the UK in the Skill Olympics."

Andrew is following in the footsteps of his dad and granddad George Pearson, a director of the company, by joining them in the construction industry.

The company, which was started in 1983 by Mr Ormerod and Mr Pearson, works for blue chip clients such as hospitals, housing associations and other government clients. It has a strong tradition of bringing on apprentices to a high standard.

Over the years it has worked with the Construction Industry Training Board training around 15 apprentices, three of them achieving top ranking results at college.

David Asson, construction manager at D & G, said that Andrew had 'only reaped the rewards of the efforts he has put in over the last three years'.

"I'm sure he will grow and develop even further from now on," he said.
Mr Ormerod added: "We are delighted he has followed the family tradition and come into the construction industry.

"It also comes as a great present for his granddad who has his 65th birthday this week."

The company now has another new apprentice in Thomas Mather who has just completed his first year and has good potential.