Andy Thornton

July 16, 2008

Skillbuild regional final winner

Daniel Collinson, 18, a second-year apprentice at Elland-based Andy Thornton Ltd, has claimed the top joinery prize in the Yorkshire round of the national Skillbuild competition. Daniel came first out of 80 entrants in the competition, which was held on 27th June at Huddersfield Technical College. He will now represent the Yorkshire region at the national Skillbuild final.

The joinery competition consisted of a test of practical skills, and the knowledge needed to carry them out.  All entrants were given a set drawing of a sash frame, and then had just six hours to redraw and make it.

Daniel attends Huddersfield Technical College one day a week on day release from Andy Thornton. After completing his final year as an apprentice next year, he will be a fully qualified joiner. Daniel plans to stay at Andy Thornton upon qualifying. The West Yorkshire company is currently enjoying a buoyant period with a strong order book into the second half of 2008.

The national Skillbuild final takes place at Leeds College of Building 1st - 3rd October. The national winner will then have the opportunity to compete to take place in the international final in Calgary, September 2009.