PLASTERER Martin Horner is moulding himself a reputation as one of the country's top tradesmen.

The Darlington College of Technology student, who lives in Shildon, has won the regional heat of the national Skillbuild competition, designed to attract new blood into the industry.

Competitors were up against the clock as they ran a set of moulds, which they then had to attach to a wall.

Martin, 18, was the only contestant to complete the task in the heat, which was held in Durham.

He will now compete in the national final, which will be staged in Glasgow, in October, attracting the best plasterers from all across the country.

"I didn't really expect to win," said Martin, who has worked for M&M Plasline in Newton Aycliffe for two years.

"But I have had plenty of practice so found the contest okay. I will be coming into the Darlington college regularly for extra training so I am ready for the final."

Tutor Trevor Cook said: "He did very well indeed. It's a big achievement.

"With a bit more training I think he will do well in the final and we will be working on getting him up to scratch."