A NPTC Group of Colleges’ brickwork apprentice has won a prestigious title and could now become the best in Britain.

James Luc Martin, a Level 3 Brickwork apprentice from Neath College, became senior Welsh champion at The Guild of Bricklayers Welsh Section competition held at Coleg Gwent.

James is in the third year of his apprenticeship with Watts Brickwork and attends college through work-based learning team Pathways Training.

James beat entrants from across Wales with his high level of precision and technique.

Edward Jones, Deputy Head of School of Construction and the Built Environment, said:

‘’James’s performance in the competition was fantastic. He worked to a very high standard throughout and produced a top-quality job and should be very proud of his achievement.

“Congratulations must go to his college lecturer John Lewis for the fantastic support and training which has helped him become such a talented bricklayer.’’

James will now represent Wales at the prestigious final in Herts Regional College, Turnford, in June.

The Guild of Bricklayers was founded in 1932 to promote and maintain the highest standards of craftsmanship in brickwork. Each year the Guild organises regional brickwork competitions at Senior, Junior, and Schools levels with a National Final.