Winner: Steven Laing of Laing Traditional Masonry
Stonemason Steven Laing runs an impressive apprenticeship programme at his company Laing Traditional Masonry, inspired by his own experience of training with master masons. 13 apprentices have already completed his programme, and 5 more are currently training with him.
OUTSTANDING SUPPORT OF A TRADITIONAL CRAFT OR SKILL
Winner: Dave Cockwell of Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding
Dave Cockwell's skills of hand-crafting wooden boats are predominantly self-taught and it was his struggle to learn through trial and error that inspired him to set-up a formal apprenticeship scheme in his own company, Cockwells Modern and Classic Boatbuilding.
Highly commended: Tim Donaghy of Dry Stone Walls Ltd
Originally a graphic designer, Tim Donaghy began a career as a dry-stone waller after tiring of life behind a desk. He quickly became hooked, forming his own business in 1998. Dry-stone walling has historically been a man's profession, but Tim broke the mould by training a female apprentice, Kay Lane, who now works with him full time.
BEST START-UP BUSINESS BASED ON A TRADITIONAL CRAFT OR SKILL
Winner: Aiveen Daly
Upholsterer Aiveen Daly creates glamorous and contemporary chairs using traditional methods and tools, including foot-long needles. Aiveen originally worked in marketing and started upholstery at an evening class, but now has a thriving business reinvigorating antique and vintage furniture.
Highly commended: Helen Rogers and Barbara Massey of Massey & Rogers
Helen Rogers and Barbara Massey studied textile design together with a view to setting up their own business. They both became fascinated with traditional techniques and now weave innovative and contemporary designs with old fashioned looms, and hand screen-print their textiles.
BEST USE OF A TRADITIONAL CRAFT OR SKILL
Winner: Paul Jewby
Woodcarver Paul Jewby was selected by the judges for his carvings and antique furniture restorations using predominately Victorian tools. Paul has been carving for over 20 years and has restored many important pieces of furniture, including a pair of tables that were badly burnt in the fire at Windsor Castle.
Highly commended: Marion Kane
Determined to keep the old skills of her trade alive, silversmith Marion Kane produces contemporary silver tableware using a technique called 'hand raising', using just a hammer and a metal former. Since it opened, her business has flourished and Marion has even created a coffee pot, mug and cream jug for Ewan McGregor.