A TALENTED stonemason says he is “absolutely delighted” after winning a prize in a top national industry competition.

Darek Malecki, 31, of Moorlinch, came third in his category in the national final of SkillBuild, the UK’s largest multi-trade competition.

Darek, who works for Wells Cathedral Stonemasons and attends Weymouth College, was up against five other finalists in the three-day competition at Preston College in Lancashire.

He said: “It’s great to be in the top three. The competition was tough, but it has been worth all the hard work and preparation.

“I’d like to thank my college and employer for all their support and help, and everyone at SkillBuild for a great competition.”