Back to NewsAn apprentice for CG Fry & Son Ltd, Aston was crowned the junior winner of the Apprentice Paperhanger of the Year contest, at a dazzling masquerade ball hosted by national trade body the Painting and Decorating Association.
The 21-year-old claimed a £200 cash prize along with a trophy and certificate at the event.
Aston, who is studying towards his NVQ Level 2 in painting and decorating at Bournemouth and Poole College, said: “It’s the first time that I’ve taken part in this competition and I’m absolutely speechless to be named the top junior paperhanger.
“My teacher at college suggested I enter. When we did it in class, everyone had zero experience, but I had worked on a job that involved a lot of wallpapering and thanks to my colleague Ian Mansbridge, I had managed to get to grips with it.
“The ball was a really good evening and I was just chuffed to be there. When they said I’d won I was gobsmacked.
“Before I started this apprenticeship, I had gone from job to job, but I’ve stuck with this and now I’ve won a national competition. I can’t believe how much my life has changed in the last two years.
“I’d definitely encourage other young people to look at apprenticeships if they’re given the opportunity.”
Neil Ogilvie, Chief Executive of the PDA, said: “Wallpapering is a very specific skill in the life of a professional decorator and Aston demonstrated that in abundance through his application and aptitude.
“Not only did he produce excellent quality work, he proved himself to be a professional painter and decorator of the future.”
C G Fry and son has a dedicated direct workforce and believe in bringing craftsman into the industry through apprentice schemes.