Carpenters recognised nationally for their skills

Two carpentry and joinery apprentices in the Channel Islands have been recognised nationally.

Gareth Foster and Alex Gill are completing their apprenticeships at The Guernsey Institute (TGI) and were awarded by the Institute of Carpenters.

Gareth Foster works for a building contractor in Alderney and was given the highly commended prize in the third-year student.

TGI said the judges were looking for exceptional skill and dedication to the industry and the awards highlighted future talent.

Mr Gill works for a Jersey-based carpentry and decoration company and came first regionally and third nationally in the Under-21 category of the competition.

The Guernsey Institute said the awards were open to students and apprentices from about 50 colleges and this year those taking part had to make a service hatch with the completed pieces being shipped to London to be assessed.

Lecturer in carpentry and joiners at TGI, Jacques Perree, said: "We are extremely proud of Gareth and Alex for these fantastic achievements.

"These results reflect the talent and commitment of our apprentices and their employers/mentors to developing the next generation of industry professionals."

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