Euan McLean won the Junior category of the Painting and Decorating Association’s annual Paperhanger of the Year competition held at Liverpool in November.
Euan (18) studies painting and decorating at Inverness College UHI. He was joined at the awards by fellow UHI students Kimberley McIntyre (26), who took home the senior award, and Rebecca Mackinnon (19) who finished as runner-up to Euan.
The apprentices took part in a gruelling six-hour challenge designed to test their precision, timing and skill in Doncaster in June.
Mark Mitchell, Painting and Decorating Lecturer at Inverness College UHI, congratulated the students on their achievements.
He said: “I am delighted for Kimberley, Euan and Rebecca, and feel immensely proud of everything our apprentices have achieved this year.
“They are absolutely committed to being the very best they can be, and these award wins are testament to the hard work and determination they continue to demonstrate each day.”
Euan said: “I enjoyed the competition. It was a good experience, but I didn’t think I would win, so when I was told I was placed I was surprised but happy.
“Going to Liverpool not knowing what place I had come then receiving first place was a shock but I’m really chuffed.
“The whole process gave me a lot more confidence in myself.”
Euan is an apprentice at Hendersons Ltd in Rothes.
Julie Henderson of Hendersons commented: “We are incredibly proud of Euan’s achievement. His success in the competition is recognition of his hard work and dedication.”
Photograph shows Euan receiving his award from Neil Ogilvie, PDA CEO, left and Dave Hope from Brewers, at the Liverpool Hilton Hotel on 20 November. © yorkshireeventsphotography.com