A BRICKLAYING apprentice has made it through into the national finals of a prestigious competition.

Jack Broadbent, 19, from Droitwich, took part in the World Skills UK National Finals which was held over three days at the NEC in Birmingham.

After three days of competition, Mr Broadbent, who was representing both his employer Bloor Homes and the Heart of Worcester College, finished third.

He also won one of three spots for progression to the grand final of the competition where he will compete for a place at the 2019 World Championships in Russia.

"It was a really rewarding competition for me as the whole event was a spectacle," said Mr Broadbent. "My family and peers came to cheer me on and I’m pleased I could do them all proud.

"The tasks that we had to complete were challenging as we had to show a range of skills, so when I found out I had made the top three, I was delighted.

"I’m now looking forward to competing to be the overall UK representative in Russia."

Mr Broadbent was one of eight regional winners to compete for a place in the UK finals, having won the West Midlands version of the competition in July.

The bricklayers were briefed on the night before competition started, and had three days to complete three different types of wall, showing off a variety of skills, including building a wall with a red poppy design in the centre to commemorate Armistice Day.

To celebrate his achievement, Mr Broadbent was presented with a cordless drilled by Jason Arnold - construction director Bloor Homes.

Brent Lintin, bricklaying apprentice master for Bloor Homes Western, said: "It was an honour to see one of our apprentices take part in the national finals of such a prestigious competition, and we are delighted that Jack managed to secure a place into the final round."