We hosted the 45th Institute of Carpenters, Merlane Trophy Competition

We were joined by North Notts College, Derby College, Lincoln College, Grantham College and North Lindsey College. The students took part in a one-day competition in our Carpentry & Joinery workshop. All entrants were tasked with creating the same design in four hours. Their creations were judged by experts who are renowned for upholding their excellence to craftsmanship and carpentry.

All participants received a certificate and free membership to the Institute of Carpenters. The institute was founded in 1890 and has continually overseen the training of carpenters and joiners and assisted in maintaining professional standards and knowledge across the region.

Now let’s celebrate this year's winners!

1st - Kai Kryger (Derby College)

2nd - Coby Harvey (The Sheffield College)

3rd - Matthew Lee (North Notts College)

Ernie Leach Shield Award – Logan Jones (The Sheffield College)

Thank you to our sponsors Paslode, Jewson, Howdens, Arnold Laver, NOCN Group, Sheffield Window Centre, Tilgear, Arden Winch, Oakwood Building and Specialist Services and The David Winson Organisation. They kindly supported the competition and donated incredible prizes such as a Makita jigsaw, a drill, hand saws, Paslode framing, finishing nail guns and cash prizes to name a few.

This year, we were privileged to have been joined by a member of the Merlane family, this is the second time since the passing of George Merlane, the founder of the competition. Catherine Merlane, the granddaughter of George Merlane offered advice to the students and awarded the winners with the top-of-the-range prizes. Catherine expressed her honour that the competition still takes place to this day and that she believes it “encourages and supports students with a skill that will support them in their lives and careers.”

Thank you to everyone who came to spectate and a massive well done to everyone who took part!