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Lincoln College host 44th Institute of Carpenters, Merlane Trophy Competition

May 24 2023

The 44th edition of the competition featured colleges from the East Midlands - competing in a one-day practical work competition, judged by field experts - committed to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship - it allows Carpentry students from colleges across the region to showcase their skills and knowledge.

  • Competition winners

    Competition winners

  • 3rd Place Winner: Tommy Lavelle

    3rd Place Winner: Tommy Lavelle

  • 1st Place Winner: Henry Cook

    1st Place Winner: Henry Cook

  • Ernie Leech award winner: Judd Townhill

    Ernie Leech award winner: Judd Townhill

The Institute of Carpenters' prestigious Merlane Trophy competition was hosted earlier today at Lincoln College. The 44th edition of the competition featured colleges from the East Midlands - competing in a one-day practical work competition, judged by field experts - committed to upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship - it allows Carpentry students from colleges across the region to showcase their skills and knowledge. On top of the recognition associated with winning such a competition, all participants also receive a free membership to the Institute of Carpenters - this is a great advantage for students starting their carpentry careers. 

Henry Cook and Tommy Lavelle, two apprentices and Logan Somers, Judd Townhill, Luke Shaw and Josh Holman-Brown - all Level 1 Study Programme learners from Lincoln College, were among the contestants. Students have shown dedication and skill in their work throughout their studies and were determined to prove themselves in the competition. 

The judges were looking for a high level of skill and attention to detail in the student's work. Students rose to the challenge and delivered excellent results, using their knowledge and skills to craft impressive pieces - their precision in their work was evident in every aspect of their projects. 

Paul Barnes, Learning and Skills Lead for Carpentry & Joinery and Plastering, said: “The competition provides an exceptional platform for our students to demonstrate their craftsmanship and push their boundaries, giving them the invaluable chance to be recognised by a commendable institution. The Merlane Trophy truly epitomises the pursuit of excellence in our craft, and we are proud to participate and support our students as they embark on this remarkable journey.” 

Geoff Rhodes FIMMM MIOD, President of the Institute of Carpenters, “At the Institute, we are passionate about helping young people recognise opportunities with craft skills. The history of the organisation goes back to 1890; the momentum for education in craft skills training was strong - by the late 1970s, we started to see a decline, but we have since seen a resurgence - we need people in the construction industry and therefore is vital to encourage young people to learn the trade.” 

The Merlane Trophy competition was a huge success, thanks to the generous sponsorship from Milwaukee, MKM, Lindum,Till Gear and Musgraves – offering fantastic prizes makes the competition both exciting and rewarding for the learners. Thank you to Sylvester Keal for cater

Milwaukee provided excellent prizes for the learners, including a 12-volt, 7-piece tool kit called the M12 FPP7A2-624P, which has a retail value of over £900. The kit includes several essential tools, such as a drill, a circular saw, and a reciprocating saw. In addition, Milwaukee also provided several pieces from the M18 range, including the M18 FID2-502X impact driver – a powerful and efficient tool - it is an excellent addition to any carpenter's tool kit and was a coveted prize for the competition participants. 

Michael Buck, JSS Construction Specialist, said: “The Milwaukee prize offering aims to empower the next generation of talent in their career pursuits - providing them with top-of-the-line tools - inspiring professionals - giving them the resources to hone their skills, unleash their creativity, and contribute to the ever-evolving construction industry.” 

As an employer-led institution, we believe that opportunities such as today’s events instill confidence, foster innovation, and set the stage for a promising journey beyond college. 

 

Full list of winners: 

1st – Henry Cook, Lincoln College. 

2nd – Callum Hatfield, Sheffield College. 

3rd – Tommy Lavelle, Lincoln College. 

Ernie Leech award – Judd Townhill, Lincoln College.  

 

For more information on our Construction College, please click here.