A LANCASHIRE student has been named one of the country’s best trainee decorators.

Thomas Regan, 20, a recently qualified Painting and Decorating NVQ student from Knuzden, is one of three finalists in line to win a new set of tools and between £100 and £300.

The Accrington and Rossendale College graduate said: “Painting and decorating is something I’ve always wanted to do, and the competition will hold me in good stead.

“I’m very happy to have been selected as one of the finalists.”

The competition, held for the 16th year last month in Nottingham, saw participants judged on their ability to match and cut paper accurately, get levels on borders correctly in place and apply paper smoothly with no blisters.

Prizes will be awarded later this month at the Painting and Decorating Association’s annual conference at the Marriott Hotel & Country Club in the Forest of Arden.