Joiner Marc McQuade, 22, from Barlanark, and roof sheeter and cladder Craig Owens, from Haghill, were honoured at the Scottish Building Apprenticeship and Training Council Apprenticeship Awards.

Marc, who works for City Building (Glasgow) LLP, won the James Birnie Award for Craft Excellence Apprentice Of The Year, while Craig, from Topek Ltd, became the first winner of the Construction Specialist Apprentice Of The Year title at the ceremony in the Scottish Parliament.

The event was hosted by MSP Nigel Don, convener of the Parliament's cross- party group on construct- ion, and MSPs and leading industry representatives attended.

Now in its 13th year, the annual Scottish Building Apprenticeship and Training Council Apprenticeship Awards recognise the talents, skills and abilities of construction apprentices working across Scotland.

Marc said: "When I heard my name being announced as the winner, I couldn't believe it.

"The other candidates were very impressive, so it was a real surprise.

"I am really enjoying my apprenticeship and have managed to achieve much more than I first thought."

Michael Levack, Scottish Building Federation chief executive and employers' secretary for the training council, said: "The calibre of nominees was truly excellent, competition in the four categories was really tight.

"My congratulations go to the winners and shortlisted candidates."