AN apprentice from Huddersfield Technical College has won a top prize in a national competition.
Tom Gooch, 18, of Meltham, won the top bench joinery prize at the 2007 Skill Build National Championships.
He triumphed after a three-day practical test which involved designing and making a door.
Tom, who was representing Yorkshire, picked up a gold medal, £300 and new woodworking tools.
He will now be invited to take part in a selection programme which could lead to him representing the UK in the 2009 Skill Build Olympics.
Tom works for Burns Contractors at Aspley and is on an NVQ Level 3 qualification course at the Technical College’s School of Construction.
Course tutor Paul Spivey said: “Tom is a great ambassador for Huddersfield. It’s a great achievement to get to the UK finals and taking the top prize is fantastic.
“He’s a credit to the college and the company he works for. Natural talent and hard work, plus support from his tutors and employer, have all contributed to his success.’’
