An Oldham teenager has been named as the Trainee Mason of the Year by Stone Federation Great Britain.
Stephen Spence (18), who works for Oldham-based Lloyd and Smith Limited, was presented with his award by television personality builder Tommy Walsh at a ceremony in Lord's cricket ground London.
This is not Stephen's first success. Earlier this year he won a national Skill Build junior competition at York College, where he is training, and won the event with 92 points from a maximum of 100.
"I chose a career in the stone industry because I saw a lot of potential for me as a stone mason," he said. "I was introduced to stonemasonry by my brother-in-law, who has won a silver medal in a World Skills competition.
"I was only 15 when he took me to work with him at weekends to observe masonry work and I have now just finished my first year at college, gaining an NVQ level one.
"One of the most interesting things about the job is the history and grandeur of the many varied buildings we work on. It gives me great pleasure to know that my work will be around for many generations to come.
"I also enjoy working alongside other specialist trades, which gives me a valuable insight into the bigger picture of the restoration and conservation industry.
"I am going to carry on competing in competitions and would like to represent Britain in the next World Skills event."
Nominating Stephen for the award Bryan Smith from Lloyd and Smith said "Stephen has shown an unprecedented commitment to the stone masonry industry from a very young age. He has voluntarily come into our workshop at weekends since he was 15, during which time he has been watching and learning all about our work.
"This was the defining reason he was offered an apprenticeship scheme when he left school. At no point during the previous two years did Stephen expect anything in return for his time at weekends, even though he quickly became a useful member of our workforce.
"His commitment and enthusiasm is remarkable and his willingness to learn exemplary."