Former apprentice returns to pass on his skills to a new generation of craftsmen

Former Wells Cathedral Stonemasons apprentice Sam Powell is helping to train the next generation of skilled craftsmen after returning to the business following a 14-year solo career.

37-year-old Sam from Somerset, learned the medieval skills of traditional stonemasonry while on an apprenticeship with the Cheddar-based business from 1985-1988. After qualifying, he spent a further two years with the company, restoring ancient buildings throughout the UK and overseas.

He has returned to Wells Cathedral Stonemasons as contracts manager, but will also be involved with training the next generation of stonemasons on the firm's apprenticeship scheme.

Wells Cathedral Stonemasons' Managing Director, Peter Arkell, said: "We are delighted to welcome Sam back. Having completed his apprenticeship with us, we know he has the necessary skills.

"He can turn his hand to any part of the work we do, whether it be preparing stone, making intricate carvings for the restoration of ancient buildings, or producing new-build projects."