A CONSTRUCTION apprentice from Dorchester has laid down strong foundations by claiming a prestigious award.

Joe Hallett beat strong competition to be crowned winner of the first year flooring category at the 2012 National Construction College (NCC) Awards.

Joe was nominated along with 11 other apprentices for their outstanding efforts in 11 categories including flooring, highways maintenance and essential skills.

The county town apprentice received his award at the NCC in London.

He said: “Being nominated for an award was great – but to actually win one in my category was a real surprise.

“It’s a great reward for the work I’ve done and I’d like to thank the training staff at the NCC for the help they have given me and the other apprentices.”

Director of the NCC Andy Walder said: “The NCC Awards are a great way to celebrate the achievements of young apprentices in our industry.

“We are extremely proud of everyone who was nominated or who won an award at this year’s events.

“The NCC has been an essential catalyst for delivering the skills for growth the construction industry needs.

“These awards have allowed the NCC to showcase the young talent it helps to deliver on a regular basis – bringing vital fresh blood to the construction industry.”

He added: “The National Construction College is focused on creating a highly skilled, safe and professional UK construction workforce.

“To achieve this, it has more first-class instructors in more locations than any other construction training provider in Europe and offers free professional advice on finding the right training for individuals and construction organisations.”