A former student at Swindon College has won a regional competition taking top spot in the joinery category for the south west.

Thomas Lincoln, 21, will now compete later this month at the NEC Birmingham in the SkillBuild 2019 UK National Final – where he will represent the college and TT Manufacturing where he works.

“I’m very excited to reach this level and to be able to represent the college and my workplace on a big platform in this competition,” said Thomas.

He is one of eight finalists who will carve it out to be named the winner.

If successful Thomas will be awarded a gold medal and get the chance to compete in Singapore 2021.

Thomas studied Level 2 in bench joinery at the college while doing an apprenticeship at TT Manufacturing.

He said: “Doing an Apprenticeship has helped lead me to this point, it has really driven me in being able to build this skill.”