TWO trees-and-timber trainees were recognised at Lantra Scotland’s ALBAS (Awards for Land-Based and Aquaculture Skills), which recently took place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dunblane Hydro.

Euan Sneddon, aged 18 from Newton Stewart, won the Trees and Timber category, while Javin Hannah, aged 24 and also from Newton Stewart, took the runner-up spot.

Forestry Journal: Euan Sneddon (left).Euan Sneddon (left).

Euan has been doing a Modern Apprenticeship in Trees and Timber with Forestry and Land Scotland through SRUC. Through his hard work and commitment, he achieved certificates on his first attempt, as well as completing an impressive portfolio of work for his SVQ level 5 in Trees and Timber. His drive to continually improve has also seen Euan achieve his Forestry PDA at the University of the Highlands and Islands this year.

Euan said: “I’m really chuffed to win an ALBAS award. Ever since I was young I have always loved to use the forest recreationally through my mountain biking, hill walking, running and fishing. Now to be working in the industry and winning awards is a great feeling and gives me the confidence to go on and succeed.”

Javin Hannah has also been doing a Modern Apprenticeship in Trees and Timber with Forestry and Land Scotland through SRUC. Previously he worked as an outdoor instructor for sporting activities in Galloway, before coming across the forestry apprenticeship scheme.

Forestry Journal: Javin Hannah (left).Javin Hannah (left).

The ALBAS were hosted by farmer and stand-up comedian, Jim Smith, and organised by Lantra Scotland.

Lantra’s Scotland Director, Liz Barron-Majerik, said the awards are a very effective way of recognising the success of trainees in Scotland’s rural sector, as well as getting employers involved in growing the next generation of talent.

She said: “The ALBAS showcase the many incredible people who have joined Scotland’s land-based, aquaculture and environmental conservation industries and who are getting their careers underway.

“I know our judges were very impressed again with the quality of the nominations, so I would like to congratulate all of the finalists, as well as the winners.

“We’re of course very grateful to have the support of a range of people and organisations who make holding an event like this possible, including our main sponsor Skills Development Scotland, and Aberdeenshire Council, British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association, Elspeth Watson, Equido Horsemanship, Marine Scotland, Royal Highland & Agricultural Society Scotland, Rural Skills Scotland, SAOS, Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre, Scottish Forestry, Scottish Land and Estates, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Qualifications Authority, Scottish Salmon Company, and SRUC.”

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