Thame builder is region’s top apprentice

A THAME building firm is patting itself on the back this week, after one of its young employees was chosen as Southern Counties Regional Apprentice of the Year, in the prestigious Master Builder of the Year Awards 2015.

Zak Lafford, who works for Stuart Bar CDR Ltd, Thame, was rightly proud of his achievement and said afterwards: “It’s a great achievement. I feel proud to have won the award and feel like my hard work and dedication has started to pay off, especially in an industry that’s not always full of compliments and praise; this is the best type of ‘pat on the back’ you can get.

“Working for Stuart Barr has played a massive part in me getting where I am today. They have helped every step of the way, giving me the time, patience and training needed to develop my skills which has allowed me to reach the high quality of work that Stuart Barr provides.”

Zak’s boss, Stuart Barr himself, said: “Zak has always shown the highest levels of commitment and been keen to extend his knowledge. As well as producing the highest quality of work, he is punctual and presentable with great communication skills, which is exactly what is required to give great customer service in our industry. Within the Stuart Barr group of companies, investing in young people is core to our business and we take on at least two apprentices each year across our business interests of construction, joinery and kitchens.

“We are delighted with Zak’s achievement – he is a great role model for the other apprentices following in his footsteps. and we wish him the best of luck for the finals in February.”

The national winners of the 12th Master Builder of the Year Awards will be announced by TV presenter and architecture enthusiast Charlie Luxton who will present the coveted accolades at a high profile ceremony at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel in London, on February 18, 2015.

The awards represent a nationwide search by the FMB to find the best builders in the UK. Nominations must come from a satisfied client, and builders are judged on their technical ability together with their customer service skills and attention to detail, along with the project’s end result.

The finalist for Apprentice of the Year will receive a cheque for £1,000.