The second regional heat of a nationwide contest to find the Painting and Decorating Association’s Apprentice of the Year 2025 has taken place in Accrington.
Junior and Senior apprentices had just six hours to scale up, sketch out and paint a complex image designed to test their stamina, accuracy and skill as part of the national competition.
Top-scorers at the event will join the best performers from four other regional heats held in England, Scotland and Wales, at a Grand Final event held in Doncaster in May.
PDA Chief Executive, Neil Ogilvie said: “The PDA’s Apprentice of the Year competition is a gruelling task that is both physically and mentally demanding – and it’s been fantastic to observe apprentices from across the North West as they’ve taken on the challenge.
“Judging this competition can be a tough job – we’ve been impressed with the effort and skill that has been on display.”
Held at Accrington and Rossendale College, the competition attracted 18 entrants from across the region.
Tutor at the college, Megan Talbot said: “For over 15 years we’ve held the PDA competition at Accrington and Rossendale College, and I think it’s a brilliant opportunity for apprentices to showcase their skills – not just the practical skills, but being able to work under pressure, time management and precision as well.
“I’ve seen first-hand how these competitions can impact your career. I used to do these when I was an apprentice and it’s helped build my confidence, not just in competitions but within the trade and myself as a person.”
Winners will be announced at the PDA’s prestigious Premier Trophy Awards, held at Plaisterers’ Hall, London, in July.