Two apprentice stonemasons at Worcester Cathedral have received the highest accolade in recent assessments.

The triumphant pair, Debbie Branford and Alfie Rollett, received distinctions in their Standard 2 Stonemasonry qualifications.

This achievement has allowed them to climb ranks, graduating from apprentices to fully qualified stonemasons.

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Master Mason at the cathedral, Darren Steele, said: "This is great news, not only for Debbie and Alfie, but for the Cathedral and heritage sector as a whole.

"We are delighted to be one of only nine Cathedrals in the country that has its own dedicated team of stonemasons.

"We offer a sought-after training programme to bring the next generation of masons through and ensure the long-term conservation of our historic architecture."

He added: "I am immensely proud that both Debbie and Alfie have received distinctions, the highest accolades.

“This is the first time, nationwide, that masonry colleges have delivered this new qualification, where previously levels 1, 2 and 3 NVQs were mainstay.

"So, it has been a difficult learning curve for all parties, including the Cathedral work-based teaching team too."

Mr Steele concluded: “Congratulations to both of our newly qualified stonemasons on achieving their apprenticeships to the highest of standards.”

Ms Branford, who studied at Bath College while working and training at the cathedral, said: "It’s nice to be qualified with a distinction, which just shows the quality of training we’ve received both at college and at the Cathedral.

"I worked in finance previously, but always had a passion for history and crafts, so I’m happy that I made the right decision to pursue the apprenticeship.”

Mr Rollett, who studied at York College while completing his training, added: "It’s great to finally be a qualified stonemason.

"The Cathedral and college were both amazing, especially going to York, I feel really lucky to have been sent up there to study.

"It’s probably an unusual career choice for a 21-year-old, but I was inspired by a friend’s dad, who was a thatcher, to go down the craft / trade route and it’s worked out perfectly for me.”