Two apprentices from Accrington and Rossendale College have been given awards at this year's Painting and Decorating Association ceremony.

The Painting and Decorating Association Trophy Awards ceremony is an annual skills competition that has been running since 1987.

It is renowned for recognising the best talent in the industry and is open exclusively to apprentices.

The event saw participation from more than 65 contestants representing 20 colleges nationwide, culminating in four regional heats and a national final, with the award ceremony taking place at the historic Plasterers’ Hall in London. 

Holly Duffy, a 21-year-old apprentice painter and decorator in her second year, was awarded the Chief Executive's Recognition of Achievement for her exceptional resilience and determination under pressure.

This marks the second consecutive year Holly has received this accolade, recognising her relentless spirit and commitment to excellence.  

Carol Spain, finance director at SPAIN Building and Maintenance, said: “Holly's recognition for the second year in a row is a reflection of her hard work and the high standards we uphold at SPAIN.

"She’s a fantastic example of the new wave of talent entering our industry and we’re really lucky to have her.” 

Accrington and Rossendale College tutor Simon Whitaker said: “Holly’s determination to compete again despite self-doubt is truly inspiring.

"Just making it to the final, being among the top eight nationally, is a testament to her hard work and perseverance.”

Jessica Brierley, also 21 and in the final year of her apprenticeship, emerged as the Senior National Champion.

Competing against 64 other entrants across the regional heats, Jessica's exceptional skill and dedication set her apart.

Jessica works for F. Brierley and Sons based in Rochdale, and said: “Winning the regional heat and then the national championship is a huge achievement.

"I’m so pleased that all my hard work has paid off and been recognised in this way.

Accrington and Rossendale College's participation in the Painting and Decorating Trophy Awards has been consistently strong, with their students frequently achieving top positions.

Simon added: “Our students have always done well in this competition, and I believe that’s down to the high calibre of students we have at Accrington and Rossendale College, and the support, motivation, and coaching provided by our staff.

"One of our current tutors Megan Talbot was a student here herself and won this competition just a few years ago.

"She understands what the students go through and how hard they work to achieve their goals.

"It’s great that she is now helping to train the next generation.” 

This year, three female apprentices from Accrington and Rossendale College competed, including Shelby Fitzakerly, who placed third in the finals and had previously been a finalist in the SkillBuild competition, where she secured second place.

Shelby also won her regional heat in the SkillBuild competition this year and is aiming for national success later in the year.   

The Painting and Decorating Trophy Awards challenge apprentices to complete a given specification within six hours, testing their ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and maintain high standards under pressure.