A BLACKPOOL student has crowned himself in glory winning the chance to represent the North of England in the 1999 Crown Trade Young Decorator of the Year - the first time in the competition's history.

Richard Gravner, from Poulton (pictured) battled against fifteen other regional hopefuls at Blackpool and the Fylde College on Tuesday (March 16).

But it was 18-year-old Richard, currently studying for a GNVQ in painting and decorating at the college, who impressed the judges with his professional work in a marathon five-hour test, which included broad wall painting, gloss work, sign, logo and broken colour work.

Richard said: "I was absolutely thrilled to win and so was the college.

"It was a long day, but more than worth it in the end."

And for his troubles, Richard picked up a medal, a certificate and £250 to spend on tools.

Richard now goes forward the the national finals in St Helens college in July.

He said: "I'm a little bit nervous about that, but I can only do my best. It would be a shame to miss out after getting so far."

The overall national winner will receive the title of Young Decorator of the Year, a unique bronze trophy and £1,000.

And if this wasn't enough, the winner faces possible selection for the British team at the next International Youth Skill Olympics held in Korea in 2001.

"I'm trying not to look too far down the line at the moment", said Richard. "But it would be a wonderful trip and I'll definitely be trying my hardest to get there."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.