A TEENAGE carpenter has been recognised as one of the top joinery students in the North West.

Oliver Simpson, aged 17, claimed runner-up in the regional heats of the 2018 SkillBuild contest, narrowly missing out on representing Bury at a national level.

The Bury College student went up against dozens of contestants at the City of Liverpool College for the regional qualifier earlier this month.

SkillBuild has been running for more than 45 years and sees students from across the country showcase their talents to be crowned winner in their chosen trade.

This year, students were given a five-hour challenge to set out, make and construct a frame.

Oliver, from Tottington, said: "During the competition I was really nervous and excited. I was happy to place second and to be the only one to finish the frame.

"The completion has developed my confidence as well as my range of skills."

On completing his Bury College Level 1 Carpentry and Joinery diploma, Oliver would like to progress onto Level 2 before securing a job within the industry.

Mick Booth, carpentry and joinery team leader, said: "The carpentry and joinery department are very proud of Oliver’s achievement. He has an outstanding attitude towards his course which is reflected in his tool skills.

"This experience of competing against the best students in the North West has given Oliver the confidence, drive and determination to be the best he can be in this trade and he eagerly awaits next year’s round of competitions where he will be competing at senior level. Watch this space."

Chris Hutchinson, Carpentry and Joinery Tutor added: "Oliver was very unlucky not to secure first place and the competition must have been very close.

"Myself and the rest of the carpentry and joinery department are very proud of his achievement during his first competition."

The former Tottington High School pupil was one of several Bury College construction students who entered the competition, which is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).