The prestigious 2024 On The Tools Awards took place on Thursday, November 21st with headline sponsor Jewson: in a glittering ceremony that celebrated the exceptional talent, dedication, and innovation within the UK construction sector. With the generous support of sponsors, the evening recognised tradespeople and professionals making an extraordinary impact on their industry and communities.
Three painters and decorators graced the winners lineup this year, including Will Hargreaves a Bolton-based painting and decorating apprentice from Rex Decor, who took the top spot in the Apprentice of the Year category, sponsored by CT1. Hanna Kalafarska, a Nottingham-based painter and decorator from Colour Coated took the top spot in the Painter and Decorator of the Year category, and painter John Eaton won the Community Hero of the Year award, sponsored by City Electrical Factors (CEF).
Each winner received a coveted Barry Head trophy and £1,000 in prize money, courtesy of the generous
sponsors.
Apprentice of the Year – Sponsored by CT1
Winner: Will Hargreaves, Rex Decor
“Will has shown remarkable growth and dedication in just six months of his apprenticeship. His eagerness to learn and quick mastery of new skills set him apart.”
In just six months, Will Hargreaves has demonstrated great talent and determination in his painting and decorating apprenticeship at REX Decor. Known for his willingness to learn, professionalism, and exceptional brushwork, Will’s passion for his craft and commitment to self-improvement make him a rising star in the trade.
Painter and Decorator of the Year – Sponsored by Dulux Trade
Winner: Hanna Kalafarska, Colour Coated
“Hanna’s clean and encompassing work, combined with an impressive social media portfolio, won her the title.”
Hanna Kalafarska is a distinguished decorator known for her exceptional restoration of period homes. Her craftsmanship in exterior repairs and intricate joinery reflects a deep dedication to preserving historical integrity. A role model for women in the industry, Hanna inspires others with her quality work and commitment to excellence in decorating.
Community Hero of the Year – Sponsored by CEF
Winner: John Eaton, JOHN Professional Decorating Services
“A mentor and community supporter, John’s passion and perseverance have made a significant impact in his field.”
John, a passionate decorator, has overcome personal challenges, including cancer, to uplift others. He runs Summer Holiday Crash Courses and donated a vehicle to an apprentice. Balancing business demands with supporting his wife, John exemplifies resilience, creating meaningful community change and inspiring others with his unwavering dedication.
A Night to Remember
“This year marked a special milestone for us at On The Tools – celebrating 10 incredible years! What started as a small community has grown into a movement, one that champions and connects tradespeople all across the UK. I couldn’t be prouder of the journey we’ve been on, and the awards were a huge part of that celebration.
For a decade, we’ve been shining a spotlight on the incredible work tradespeople do. They’re the backbone of this country, keeping homes warm, communities thriving, and projects moving forward. The awards honoured not only their skills, but their grit, determination, and unwavering spirit. It’s their stories that inspire us all, and as we reflect on 10 years of On The Tools, we’re more committed than ever to celebrating and supporting our industry.
A huge thank you to our amazing sponsors and partners who helped make this event possible, and to all who joined us for such a special night. Here’s to another decade of championing the UK’s brilliant tradespeople!”
Lee Wilcox, Co-founder and CEO of On The Tools.
Congratulations to all the winners, highly commended, and finalists of the 2024 On The Tools Awards who represent the heart and soul of the UK’s construction industry.
Let’s continue celebrating the people who build our nation.
All category winners:
Apprentice of the Year – Sponsored by CT1
Will Hargreaves, Rex Decor
Bathroom Fitter of the Year – Sponsored by Triton
Jordan Kane, Kane Concept Plumbing and Tiling
Branch Manager of the Year – Sponsored by Bostik
Adrian Dann, SIG Roofing
Bricklayer of the Year – Sponsored by wienerberger
Kirk Wright, Blade Brickwork
Carpenter of the Year – Sponsored by SAM Mouldings
Joshua Lewis, Lewis Brothers Carpentry
Community Hero of the Year – Sponsored by CEF
John Eaton, JOHN Professional Decorating Services
Content Creator of the Year – Sponsored by CT1
WINNER: Kristian Ingham, Leadwork South West
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Tom Windle, Gardenscape
Electrician of the Year – Sponsored by Toolstation
WINNER: Kimmy the Sparks
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Theo Webster, Theo Webster Electrical Servicses
Groundworker of the Year – Sponsored by Band of Builders and Construction Sport
Daniel Clare, Clickers Construction
Heating Installer of the Year – Sponsored by The IPG
WINNER: Shoaib Awan, The Gas Expert
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Chris Starsmore, Astar Living
Kitchen Fitter of the Year – Sponsored by Howdens
Tom Easter, T&N Developments
Landscaper of the Year – Sponsored by Jewson
WINNER: Andy Waldock, The Landscaping Lounge
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Jon Taylor, TaylorMade Landscapes
Painter and Decorator of the Year – Sponsored by Dulux Trade
Hanna Kalafarska, Colour Coated
Plasterer of the Year – Sponsored by British Gypsum
Dee Prosser, Politely Plastered
Roofer of the Year – Sponsored by SIG Roofing
Dennis Richardson, Maidstone Roofer
Site Manager of the Year – Sponsored by Speedy Hire
WINNER: Tom Beeston, Orbit
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Liam Hills, Flannery Plant Hire
Traditional Craftsperson of the Year – Sponsored by Renault Trucks
Scott Reid, Stratum Masonry
Training Initiative of the Year – Sponsored by SPIT
Webs Training
Window Fitter of the Year – Sponsored by SOUDAL
Robert MacMillan, Robert MacMillan Carpentry and Joinery
Tradesperson of the Year Award – Sponsored by Jewson
Joshua Lewis, Lewis Brothers Carpentry
The Supporters of The On The Tools Awards
This event would not have been possible without the support of:
Jewson, Band of Builders, Bostik, British Gypsum, CEF, Construction Sport, CT1, Dulux Trade, Howdens, The IPG, Renault Trucks, SAM Mouldings, SIG Roofing, Soudal, Speedy Hire, SPIT, Toolstation, Totectors, Triton, Wienerberger.
For more information or to sign up for updates, visit www.onthetoolstv/awards.