A WELDER from Anglesey recently received a Medallion of Excellence at the EuroSkills Finals in Hungary.

Scott Kerr of Llanerch-y-medd represented Team UK at the competition which aims to give young professionals the chance to promote their skills on the grand stage.

The former Coleg Menai student joined 21 other talented youngsters from Britain as they demonstrated their skills to the rest of Europe.

Scott, who currently works for Professional Fabrication Service ltd in Holyhead, says he was initially taught to weld by his late grandfather before he went on to earn qualifications in the industry.

"Budapest was the most amazing experience, and one which I will remember forever," he said.

"I’ve now got my eye on the WorldSkills competitions which take place next year in Kazan – I would love to represent my country again, and will do everything I can to get there."

Team UK returned from the finals in Budapest covered in medals and glory, winning one gold, three bronze and seven medallions of excellence. They finished in ninth place out of 27 countries overall.

Coleg Menai welding lecturer Islwyn Williams, who travelled to Budapest with colleague Mark Edwards to support Scott, said: "We are delighted that Scott’s talent continues to be recognised - he has worked extremely hard to get where he is, and his commitment has always been outstanding.

"His next challenge is to win a place on the team for the WorldSkills competition, and we will support him all the way.

"The welding team here at Coleg Menai, Llangefni are all extremely proud of him."