Chippies chipper after awards success

Derby College Group is celebrating after its apprentices achieved top honours in a prestigious carpentry competition.

The annual Merlane Trophy competition, organised by the Institute of Carpenters, brought together talented apprentices from colleges across the region.

Derby College Group entered three apprentices into the four-hour, skills-based challenge, where competitors were tasked with planning and producing a complex joinery piece from technical drawings.

Jack Henley took the coveted top spot, claiming the Merlane Trophy, while Bethan Simmons was awarded the Ernie Leach Shield, presented to the apprentice who approached the task with the most logical and professional attitude.

Ben Hirst, teacher of carpentry and joinery at Derby College, said: “I’m incredibly proud of all three of our apprentices.

“The standard of competition was outstanding, and to come away with not just the trophy but also the Ernie Leach Shield is a fantastic achievement.

“It speaks volumes about the talent we have at Derby College Group and the hard work our students put in every day.”