TEENAGER Karl Smith is preparing to represent the region in a construction competition.

The 18-year-old was recently named the winner of the regional UK Skillbuild competition in cabinet making.

Karl, a student at Darlington College of Technology, will now compete in the national championships in Manchester in November.

The Skillbuild awards are designed to reward the hard work and achievements of young people working in the construction trade.

Karl, of Richmond, is employed by Reeth's Phillip Bastow and Son and as part of his training has a day release at the Darlington college working towards an NVQ in handcrafted furniture making.