Chantelle Muir, 24, from Ayr, was named Apprentice of the Year at Persimmon Homes’ annual Excellence Always Awards, held at The Belfry Hotel & Resort in the Midlands.

The awards celebrate outstanding employees from across Persimmon’s businesses throughout the UK, with Chantelle coming out on top from among hundreds of apprentices working across the company.

Chantelle joined Persimmon Homes West Scotland in 2022 as the company’s first female bricklaying apprentice in Scotland and has since become one of the most recognised young apprentices in the industry.

Working across developments throughout Ayrshire while studying at Ayrshire College, Chantelle has collected a string of competition successes and national accolades during her apprenticeship.

Last year, she made history after becoming the first female apprentice ever to reach the podium at the UK SkillBuild National Final for bricklaying, securing an outstanding second place against Britain’s top young tradespeople.

Alongside her competition success, Chantelle has continued to develop her trade on site, including helping build the home of her own apprenticeship manager last year.

Chantelle Muir said: “I was genuinely shocked to win Apprentice of the Year. There are so many talented apprentices across Persimmon, so to be recognised in this way means a huge amount to me.

“I’ve worked really hard throughout my apprenticeship and had the chance to compete against some of the best young tradespeople in the country, which has helped me grow in confidence and develop my skills.

William Smith, senior regional apprenticeship manager at Persimmon Homes, added: “Chantelle’s achievements over the last few years have been exceptional. She has not only developed into an outstanding bricklayer but has also become a role model for other young people considering a career in construction.

“To be named Apprentice of the Year across the whole business is a fantastic achievement and thoroughly deserved recognition for her hard work, determination and professionalism.”