September 28, 2012 9.54 am This story is over 144 months old

Lincoln heritage apprentice lands stonemason job

Valuable skills: An apprentice studying stonemasonry at Lincoln Castle and Cathedral has gained a job straight after graduating.

An apprentice scheme focused on preserving Lincoln’s historic buildings is celebrating its first graduate, who already found a job.

Dan Blincoe finished the heritage skills apprenticeship with Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral in stonemasonry.

However, he has already got a job with A F Jones Stonemasons in Reading. Dan started his apprenticeship in May 2011 and thanks to his hard work finished his 18 month placement earlier than expected.

He said: “The last 18 months have been a great experience. I’ve learned a lot during my apprenticeship, and working at the European Stone Festival at Trondheim in Norway this year was an invaluable experience.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenges my new job brings, and would like to thank everyone from the castle and cathedral for their support.”

Carol Heidschuster, Works Manager at Lincoln Cathedral, added: “We are all tremendously proud of Dan’s achievements, and our own.

“The stonemasonry team have mentored Dan over his 18 month bursary with us, and we have watched his confidence grow.

“The HLF Skills for the Future scheme has enabled us to offer unique opportunities for people who are developing their craft skill. Dan securing employment is a fine endorsement of the success of this scheme. We look forward to working with many more placements over the next four years.”

The apprenticeships are funded through the Heritage Lottery Fund’s Skills for the Future programme.

Lincolnshire County Council gained £475,000 for 16 bursaries in stonemasonry, joinery, lead work and recently stained glass and heritage brickwork.

Source: Lincolnshire County Council