Joiner scoops Apprentice of the Year

20-year-old James Field from Wigston has a great reason to be smiling this week – the qualified joiner has been named the Jelson Homes’ Apprentice of the Year 2010.

Sponsor ARCO, the UK’s leading safety clothing and equipment supplier, provided prizes that included the coveted shield, a pair of Dr Martens boots and a selection of Carhartt workwear to help him celebrate his success.

James, who completed his three-year apprenticeship in September 2009, was presented with his shield by Steve Meyrick, Construction Director at Jelson Homes and David Stewart from ARCO on Monday 24 May. Since joining Leicester-based Jelson Homes in August 2006, where he started straight from school, James has completed his level 3 in Site Joinery at Leicester College.

So what did James have to say about his win?

“I was completely shocked when I found out I'd won. It just feels a bit unreal. I'd like to thank everyone that's helped me to get where I am now and I know that Jelson Homes will help me to get more experience in my field and become a great carpenter."

Commenting on the winner Anne de Vere Hunt, Human Resources Officer at Jelson Homes said: “It was a really tough decision as to who the winner would be this year. James was chosen because he has a real talent for joinery and with his hard work and skill he’s been an excellent addition to the Jelson team.”

Over the last four years James has been working on Jelson developments throughout the East Midlands.