Merlane Trophy 2025: Students Claim Second and Third
On 30 April 2025, two talented Carpentry and Joinery apprentices at North Notts College earned spots in the 45th Merlane Trophy Competition, organised by the Institute of Carpenters.
Alfie Waldock from Benchmark Group secured second place while National Trust apprentice Harrison Lindsay finished close behind in third.
Established in 1890, the Institute of Carpenters is a prestigious professional membership organisation dedicated to upholding traditional woodworking craftsmanship.
With a focus on both skill and conduct, the institute helps its members achieve the highest standards, ensuring that this historic craft continues to thrive for future generations.
Held at West Notts College, this annual competition brought together participants from local colleges across the region. Each competitor had just four hours to replicate a complex joinery design using only hand tools and battery drills.
Against the clock, judges evaluated each build on precision, craftsmanship, and time management. Under intense pressure, both students showcased their exceptional technical abilities, scoring highly in all three areas.
In recognition of their achievements, both students received exciting prizes, including Milwaukee cordless circular saws, battery drills, multi-tools, and Stabila tool bags. On top of that, Alfie was awarded £75 for securing second, while Harrison took home £50 for finishing third.
Richard Drury, Apprenticeship Skills Tutor at North Notts College, shared his pride in the students’ success:
“Both students have demonstrated immense ability and maturity, fully embracing the task ahead. The precision required to use both traditional hand tools and modern battery drills in constructing a small-scale stairwell, complete with a Tusk Tenoned trimming joist, herringbone strutting, and mitred bullnose architrave around the internal perimeter, was impressive.
When the prize giving was announced, Alfie and Harrison’s smiles said it all. As their representative, I was equally proud of their achievements. This recognition is something that can be proudly added to any CV, as only a select few carpenters can say they’ve competed at this level, let alone earned second or third place.”
Find out more about construction courses at North Notts College