Mr. Colin Morris began plastering at the age of 16, when he was offered an opportunity by a family friend at Fylde Plasterers in Blackpool, Lancashire. From the start, he displayed a natural aptitude for the trade — the skills came easily, and as his confidence grew, he began to appreciate its architectural artistry.
Colin thrived during his training, while also assisting his father, who was engaged in the construction industry. From an early age, he was passionate about sharing his knowledge with the new generation of tradesmen and women — a passion that led him into teaching at just 19. Over more than 30 years, he has trained and mentored countless individuals, helping them grow into skilled professionals. The greatest reward for him is seeing their progress — securing employment, becoming self-employed, and improving their futures. This passion for teaching continues to be a major driving force in Colin’s career in plastering today.
Colin’s training and apprenticeship began at Fylde Plasterers in Blackpool, Lancashire. He later studied at Blackpool & Fylde College (Craft Level) and subsequently at Bolton Metropolitan College (Advanced Craft Level), where he was fortunate to learn from Jim Taylor — the author of Plastering by J.B. Taylor, a well-respected manual within the industry.
Colin has been in the plastering trade for nearly 50 years, having started when he was just 16. During that time, he’s trained numerous apprentices and trainees, helping them launch their own careers and achieve recognized qualifications, including:
Craft Level
Advanced Craft Level
Full Technological Certificate in Construction (City & Guilds)
Higher National Certificate in Construction
NVQ Diploma in Heritage Skills — Level 3 (NOCN)
Post-16 Certificate in Education — Lancaster University
Colin’s specialism lies in heritage plastering — conserving, restoring, and recreating ornamental plasterwork, especially using traditional materials and methods. This includes expertise in run moulding, in situ formations, and delicate repairs. His extensive training and experience enable him to perform a wide range of skills, from machine plastering, rendering, structural fireproofing, and soundproofing, to floor screeding, Venetian plaster, and extensive collaboration with related trades and fibrous plaster workshops.
Colin’s aim is to keep heritage plastering alive and pass these skills down to the next generation, ensuring the continued legacy of this wonderful profession.
An upcoming project is the Marton Windmill — Blackpool
With the scaffolding now fully in place at Marton Windmill in Blackpool, we’ve been able to carry out a thorough survey of the existing render to identify areas of concern. There’s a real sense of déjà vu, as one of our team, Jon, previously worked on the Windmill as an apprentice back in the early 1980s — applying the very render we’re now preparing to repair. It’s a remarkable opportunity to connect past and present, honoring the rich history of Marton Windmill while securing its future.
Our team is carefully assessing each section to determine the best way forward — from addressing small cracks to removing and replacing larger areas where the render shows significant deterioration. This process allows us not only to maintain the structural integrity of this iconic landmark but also to contribute to its ongoing role as a proud symbol of Blackpool’s heritage for generations to come.
Lath and Plaster 