Leeds College of Building Hosts Two National Bricklaying Competitions
July 9, 2026Top bricklayers from across the UK compete at LCB South Bank
Leeds College of Building (LCB) South Bank recently hosted two significant events in the bricklaying industry, attracting skilled professionals and apprentices from across the country. The college served as the venue for the North England regional heat of the Super Trowel 2026 competition and the national final of the Guild of Bricklayers Golden Trowel.
Super Trowel 2026 Regional Heat
On 19 June, LCB South Bank was the setting for the North England regional heat of Super Trowel 2026, a competition designed to test the speed and quality of bricklayers. Competitors were challenged to construct the best quality brick wall and lay as many bricks as possible within a strict 60-minute time limit. Additionally, a separate contest was held to identify the fastest hod carrier tasked with loading 1,000 bricks.
The event featured both professional and junior competitors vying for a place in the national final, scheduled to take place at Hertford Showground from 31 July to 1 August. The winner of the national final will receive a cash prize and the opportunity to represent the UK at SPEC MIX Las Vegas 2026.
Guild of Bricklayers National Golden Trowel Final
Earlier in June, on the 11th, LCB South Bank also hosted the Guild of Bricklayers national Golden Trowel final. This competition brought together bricklayers at various stages of their careers to demonstrate their skills over two three-hour sessions.
Among the competitors was LCB student Niamh Ormsby, who achieved third place in the junior female category. Niamh began her full-time studies at LCB in September of the previous year, making her accomplishment notable for its rapid progression.
Industry Perspectives and College Involvement
- Jack Dawson, Super Trowel Director, highlighted the importance of such events in inspiring the next generation of bricklayers and praised LCB for its role in construction education.
- Damien Mason-Harding, Curriculum Manager at LCB, acknowledged the efforts of staff and students in supporting the competitions and noted the significance of Niamh Ormsby’s achievement.
- Paul Briggs, President of the Guild of Bricklayers, emphasised the increasing participation of women in the competitions and the focus on quality workmanship within the industry.
LCB has a history of success in national bricklaying competitions, with former student Ellis Smith winning the Senior category at the Guild of Bricklayers event in 2025.
Further Information
Details about the Super Trowel 2026 competition and ticket information can be found on the official Super Trowel website. Information about the Guild of Bricklayers and their activities is available on their official website.
