Yorkshire Young Decorator Named Nation's Best

A young decorator from Yorkshire has been named the country's best young apprentice after securing national recognition for his craftsmanship.

Luke Davies, of Pontefract, an apprentice with V Robinson Professional Decorating Services - based in Fitzwilliam - fought off strong competition from across the UK to win the national final of the Painting and Decorating Association's (PDA) Trainee of the Year competition.

The Leeds College of Building student learnt he had won at a prestigious award's ceremony, held at London's magnificent Painters' Hall.

Luke, 18, was joined at the event by his boss, Vince Robinson, and his elder brother Nathan, 27, who also works for the company. Both men have coached the youngster from a green 16-year-old trainee into the nation's best.

Leading companies from across the industry, together with their guests, manufacturers and other industry figures, converged on London for the ceremony.

The contest is held in association with Yellow Pages and Guy Hayne, consumer development manager from Yell, the publisher of the Yellow Pages, presented the award. Luke also won products to the value of £500 from Purdy International.

Luke said: “I'm absolutely delighted and still cannot believe it. It's a tremendous feeling.”

Proud boss, Vince Robinson, said: “We are still buzzing, and are just absolutely delighted. It's great news for Luke, his older brother Nathan is also thrilled and it's brilliant news for the company.

“It topped a great week for Luke. The day after receiving the award his apprenticeship came to an end, so his wages have gone up because he's now a full time painter and decorator.”

Promoting and supporting apprenticeships in the industry is a crucial part of the PDA's role. The Association has a dedicated training committee and sees the trainee programme as crucial to future of the industry.

Paul Marsden, chief executive of the PDA, said: “To achieve this award, which recognises and rewards the highest standards in the industry, is an incredible achievement.

 “This year, we received more entries than ever for the title, so it was a real challenge to win.”

http://www.paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk

ENDS

Notes to Editors

The Painting and Decorating Association, which has its headquarters in Nuneaton, was established in July 2002, following a merger of the British Decorators' Association and the Painting & Decorating Federation. The British Decorators' Association was originally founded in 1894.

The PDA is Britain's largest trade body, dedicated to the painting and decorating trade. Members include sole traders through to large-scale national contractors employing hundreds of operatives.

Decorators looking to become members of the PDA are rigorously vetted prior to admission. Members are committed to the highest standards in health and safety practice, as well as training development.

The PDA is proud of its long history and high standards, and a registered member can be relied upon to do a good professional job at a fair price.

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