CONSTRUCTION cousins have laid another brick in their ever successful careers by securing top places in a prestigious competition.
Darlington College students Hollie and Mia Vayro have taken the honours in the regional heat of the Guild of Bricklayers contest beating competitors from across the North East.
Hollie was runner up in the senior competition to former Darlington College fulltime student Oliver Shaw, an apprentice with Persimmon Homes, now studying at Newcastle College. Mia, who works for Brickwork Direct Ltd, took first place in the junior girls’ competition.
Competitors were issued with a drawing of a design which they had to recreate in bricks against the clock. They were marked on accuracy and quality of finish in a competition lasting six hours, which is designed to inspire the next generation of construction workers.
The regional heat was staged at Darlington College where Hollie, 19, of Gainford, is a third year apprentice and Mia, 17, of Darlington, is a first year apprentice.
Hollie, a British junior champion cyclist, works for her father’s building firm, MV Building Services, which one day she hopes to run.
She said: “I still really enjoy bricklaying and love to compete.”
Darlington College’s head of construction Luke Gate said: “We were truly honoured to host such talented and dedicated craftspeople.
“Construction is a profession I am deeply passionate about and one that continues to play a vital role in shaping both individuals and communities. It has been immensely rewarding to see how the trade fosters not only technical excellence, but also confidence, pride and meaningful career progression.
“This event represents an important milestone for our learners, providing a platform to demonstrate their skills and take a significant step forward in their professional journey.
We are particularly proud to stand alongside The Bricklayers Guild, whose continued commitment to supporting and promoting the trade is invaluable.”
Guild of Bricklayers president Paul Briggs added: “The competition is all about enhancing quality and standards and inspiring the next generation of bricklayers. The Guild has supported these competitions for 50 years and during this time we have been impressed by the consistently high standards of craftsmanship, professionalism and determination. It’s also great to see an increasing number of females becoming bricklayers.”
Kevin Jagg, of competition sponsor Grayson Building Products, said: “We have worked with the Guild for many years, share their passion for the industry and are delighted to be involved with the competition.”
For more information on opportunities at Darlington College visit www.darlington.ac.uk.