Young Rossendale carpenter is the country's best (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Young Rossendale carpenter is the country's best

11:23am Thursday 28th January 2010 in

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A ROSSENDALE teenager has nailed the title of national Young Carpenter of the Year.

Peter Kernan, from Waterfoot, has received the accolade from the Institute of Carpenters in London.

The 18-year-old entered the contest while he was studying an apprenticeship in carpentry at Accrington and Rossendale College.

And he has proved to be a real chip off the old block after his grandad Roy Couch used to build dolls houses when Peter was growing up.

Peter, of Park Road, said: “When I was about 10 I used to watch my grandfather and that’s where it all started for me.

“I studied at Fearns High School and then entered the national awards for carpentry last year while attending Accrington and Rossendale College.

“We broke up for the summer and I did not hear a thing so I thought nothing of it. "Then I had two letters, one saying I had won the regional award, and the other saying I had won the national. "I can't believe it.”

He is now carving out a career at S&S Joinery in Helmshore to complete his apprenticeship.

Boss Stephen Hodgson said: “Peter has won a tremendous award and he certainly has a future in the business.”

Friends and family accompanied Peter to London earlier this month for an awards ceremony.

His mum Carol said: “I am absolutely chuffed with how Peter has done in the competition.

"I’m so proud of him.”

Peter’s sister Kathryn, 15, and his dad Mick also expressed how proud they were of his achievement.

Peter is now hoping to specialise in heritage joinery next year and go on to open his own business in the Valley.