George Hael, Joe Phelps (right), and Kane Truckle (left) have all qualified as stonemasons, following their three-year apprenticeship at the Cheddar based company.

The newly qualified masons undertook the academic elements of their training at Weymouth College and Moulton College in Northampton.

Ryan Brunt (middle), a Director and the master mason responsible for the company’s apprentice training, said: 'All three can be hugely proud of what they have achieved, and of the unique skills they now possess.

'Although our computer-driven machines can now be used for cutting and shaping huge pieces of stone, there is no technology replacement for the traditional craftsmanship of the stonemason. It is crucial that we preserve those rare skills', said Ryant, who began his own career as an apprentice at Wells Cathedral Stonemasons.

Meanwhile, another of the company’s former apprentices has won a national award. Martin Smith (23), who has worked for the company since leaving school, is the joint winner of the 2007 Duke of Gloucester Award.

And the latest recruit to join the company’s apprenticeship scheme is Samantha Peacock (20), who undertook an art foundation course after completing her A levels.

'Sam is making amazing progress, and is already producing an unusually high standard of carving and tooling after just three months', said Ryan.