Plumber Tom proud to represent region
11th May 2010
A young Guisborough plumber last week (April 21st and 22nd) represented the North East in the top nationwide contest for apprentices of the trade.
Tom Nelson, who works for building and civil engineering company Henderson Campbell, spent Wednesday and Thursday proving himself and his plumbing skills in a series of head-to-head challenges alongside the cream of Britain’s NVQ Level 2 and Level 3 students.
As regional winner, the 26-year-old had been awarded an all expenses paid trip to the HIP!-EX exhibition in Newbury where the two-day final took place.
Antony Henderson, Managing Director of Henderson Campbell, said all the company’s 30plus staff were really proud of Tom’s achievement.
“He has worked for us for since January 2006, during which time we have tried to give him a wide breadth of practical experience to complement his studies at Middlesbrough College,” he explained.
“Hopefully this paid off and helped him win the regional heat and earn his place in the prestigious industry final.”
Although he did not win the top title, Tom, who is also equally adept as an electrician – his father John runs Guisborough Electrical & Security Services – brought home a special cut-glass trophy commemorating his regional win, a top of the range Milwaukee 4-piece drill set worth over £250 and some top quality Blaklader clothing, along with other prizes donated by various manufacturers.
Said Tom: “It’s more than I ever hoped for when Middlesbrough College put me forward to compete in the regional heat. It was great to do so well – not just for myself but for Henderson Campbell and the college who have both helped me achieve so much. It was great to put the North East on the map!”