An Eden business has been recognised for its work in bringing on young apprentices.
Lamond’s Painting & Decorating, is run by Mark Lamond, of Newton Reigny.
The business was named the Small Employer of the Year in the Carlisle College Apprenticeship Awards 2024.
Lecturers at the college described the business as a joy to work alongside.
The award is in recognition of the way Lamond’s genuinely helps young apprentices learn the skills of the trade.
Mark has taken on apprentice Nathan Almond, 17, of Penrith, who was also a finalist in two awards — apprentice of the year and most improved apprentice of the year.
He also flew the flag for the college and the firm at an event in South London.
Nathan is the firm’s third apprentice and such has been his progress, he is expected to complete his level two qualification in painting and decorating a year early.
Carlisle College praised Lamond’s for its meaningful apprenticeships, saying: “Nothing is too much effort for them in terms of doing or getting what their apprentice needs to complete their qualification.
“This employer is in constant contact keeping up-to-date with how their apprentice is doing and how they are progressing.
“They have dedicated their time in training and pushing their apprentices to be the best that they can be.”
Mark, 51, is originally from the Long Marton and Kirkby Thore area. He trained as a mechanic and also worked for British Gypsum before leaving to establish the business which is now in its 20th year.
It offers a mixture of domestic and commercial work, from single rooms to large ancestral homes in the Lake District.
Partner Jayne Pilkington is also involved in the business, which employs time-served painter and decorator Chris Beattie, of Wigton.
Jayne said: “We’re absolutely delighted with the award and with Nathan for being shortlisted. There are not as many painters and decorators out there as there used to be and a lot less people going into apprenticeships, so we are pleased to offer a proper apprenticeship with real skills, rather than just box-ticking, as we get Nathan involved in everything.”
