A CRAFTSMAN from Darlington has been named the best in his industry,

Kenny Brunskill , who works at Stone Technical Services (STS) in Darlington, has been named as Historic England’s ‘Best Craftsperson’ in their annual ‘Angel Awards’.

The ceremony aims to recognise the outstanding achievements of people protecting local heritage.

Mr Brunskill joined STS in 2007 as an operative having been in the Army and, since then, has risen through the company to be a supervisor within STS Restoration.

He has worked on a number of prestigious projects for STS including St Paul’s Cathedral, the Serpentine Bridge in Hyde Park and Lumley Castle.

Mr Brunskill said: “Being nominated was a huge moment for me but winning has come as a massive shock- I am thrilled not just for me, but the whole of the brilliant team at STS.

Dave Stone, managing director of STS, said: “Kenny’s enthusiasm, work ethic and natural skill at working at heights have made him the “go to” guy for masonry work on steeples and spires around the region."