A SWINDON College student was presented with prizes this week after he triumphed in a cross-county plumbing challenge.

Aidan Brown, 17, from Lyneham, took part in a three-heat competition where students were given just 45 minutes to fully plumb in a radiator – in front of a live audience of students, teachers and employers.

He is currently studying for a City and Guild Level 2 Plumbing Diploma at the North Star Avenue based college.

The talented teenager managed to successfully complete the challenge in just 26 minutes – two minutes clear of his nearest rival.

He beat off plumbing rivals from City of Bristol College, Wiltshire College, South Gloucestershire and Stroud College and Gloucestershire College to win £500 vouchers to use on plumbing equipment, special pipe cutters and a certificate.

Aidan has continued to radiate success since, securing his first work placement as a result of his stellar performance.

Gill Mendham, the curriculum area manager for construction, said the college was extremely proud of the teenager’s efforts on the day.

“The Plumbing Department are very proud of Aiden winning the World Plumbing Day competition,” said Gill.

“As a result of taking part in this completion Aiden has secured an apprenticeship which is well deserved. The competition enabled our learners to showcase their skills to potential employers."

and gain experience in participating in timed activities, the feedback from all learners who participated in this event was very positive and we are busy planning next year’s event to involve all construction trades.

“As a teaching establishment it is wonderful to see the learners skills and confidence grow during their time at Swindon College alongside supporting them achieving their goals of securing a job within the industry.”

The challenge was held to World Plumbing Day, which is an international event, run by the World Plumbing Council every year to recognise the important role that plumbing plays in world health and welfare.