AN ex-Eastleigh College student has won bronze in a national joinery competition.

David Lockhart placed third at the SkillBuild contest which was held in Birmingham as part of WorldSkills.

The former bench joinery apprentice was up against five finalists from across the country who all hoped to be crowned best in category in the UK.

He competed in various observed tasks, such as building an 'H' frame within a hexagonal frame, and points were awarded for his efforts.

David said: “Placing in WorldSkills has been fantastic and a real confidence boost. Putting in the long hours and hard work to improve at my vocation everyday has paid off. I may not have got gold but I'm on the right path and I look forward to learning more to get me those last few steps.”

Barrie Bourne, lecturer in carpentry and joinery at Eastleigh College said: “David has been an outstanding student, in fact I believe one of the best I have had the privilege to teach. His work is exemplary and his motivation is exceptional. I can't praise him enough!”