A DENTON man has left his opposition plastered after winning a national award.
Lance Tait somehow juggles his work life with his personal, including the loss of his children’s mother, caring for his terminally ill mother and grandmother and raising seven children.
But as the country’s best tradesmen gathered at Edgbaston cricket ground in Birmingham and were honoured at the 2023 On The Tools Awards, he came out on top with the Plasterer of the Year prize.
Self-taught Lance overcame a challenging start, leaving school without GCSEs to become an apprentice.
However, his skill was soon noticed as he was awarded Best Apprentice in the UK in 1999 and 2001 and is now regarded as one of the best after 24 years of experience, with his skill featured on TV shows like DIY SOS and Homes Under the Hammer.
Managing a team of 15 sub-contractors and two apprentices for Manchester Road-based Longstroke Plastering, the 40-year-old’s passion for plastering and unwavering work ethic made him a deserving award candidate.
Lee Wilcox, chief executive and co-founder of On The Tools, said: “Lance, our 2023 ‘Plasterer of the Year,’ is a true testament to resilience and excellence.
“Overcoming challenges, his unparalleled skill set and dedication shine, making him a standout in the plastering world. Congratulations, Lance!”
Upon winning the award, Lance added: “I would just like to say I’m a proud, trowel-swinging, messy
plasterer!”
Entries in each category were meticulously evaluated by a panel of judges, including industry experts
such as previous winners Naima Ben-Moussa and Ricky Howell.
The criteria encompassed expertise in their craft, contribution to the trade, and a fervent passion for their work.
The On The Tools Awards celebrate tradespeople and businesses that go above and beyond to shape the future of the industry, ensuring people like Lance have the opportunity to be acknowledged for their outstanding achievements as true pioneers in the field.
On the night, Lee Wilcox added: “On The Tools is connecting construction to improve the lives of UK tradespeople.
“Entertaining, informing and empowering tradespeople is at the heart of everything we do.
“We recognise that tradespeople deserve to be uplifted and celebrated; they’re the ones keeping this nation going.
“So, after a hugely successful awards programme in 2022, I am thrilled to bring the awards back for 2023, with thanks to the support of our generous sponsors.”