My Journey in Plastering
Plastering was always an option for me, mainly starting as a labourer. When I left school, I began labouring for plasterers. One of the first I worked with was Brian Mulholland—an exceptional tradesman who could plaster with both hands. A class act, now retired and living in Australia.
Back in the 1980s, there were many great plasterers in the area. We counted over 30 squads operating within a 10 to 20-mile radius. I later took another labouring job with Hugh Trainor Plastering Contracts. One day, Hugh told me, *“You’re serving your apprenticeship—do something with your life.”* I’m thankful I took his advice. Hugh had the ability to secure large contracts, often managing up to 10 squads on a single job.
I had always wanted to try my hand at fibrous plastering. Fortunately, I got the opportunity to work for the renowned Malachy Burns. Malachy and his sons ran a great business, and I was trained primarily by his son, Michael—an unsung hero of the industry. I spent over a year on the road with Michael, learning the trade. However, when work slowed, I returned to solid plastering.
By then, I had developed a passion for fibrous plastering. I had only been fitting, never making, but I had observed the process while jobs were being loaded. Determined to learn, I borrowed an old plastering book from the library. It wasn’t easy, but I persevered. Looking back over the past 26 years in fibrous and heritage plastering, I feel I’ve achieved quite a bit—far more than I ever imagined.
Achievements & Recognition
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to receive several awards:
– **2017 Runner-up, Highly Commended Craftsman**
– **Formula Cup Winner (2018 & 2022)**
**2021 Freedom of the City of London for Services to Plastering**
– **2023 Heritage Angel Award – Best Craftsman in Heritage Build/Restoration**
– Currently nominated for another prestigious award—just being shortlisted is an honour in itself.
Education & Qualifications
Ironically, when I was younger, I was offered a chance to go to college and refused. I was just happy to be out of school! But in 2013, I went back and completed my exams, earning:
– **Level 3 in Fibrous & Solid Plastering**
– **Level 3 in Heritage Solid & Heritage Fibrous Plastering**
– **Level 3 Assessors Award**
– **Master Plasterers Certificate**
– **Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Construction Management**
– **Currently pursuing Level 7 Advanced Diploma = Master’s in Construction Management**
– **Completing a Heritage exam, which may lead to a role as a Heritage Officer**
And there are still a few more planned!
Teaching & Passion for the Trade
I’ve been in the trade since **1987**—37 years come April. There’s a lack of interest in apprenticeships at the moment, but I was recently approached by CITB to take some on. I look forward to teaching more courses for them this year.
My work covers a broad spectrum:
– **Solid & Fibrous Plastering (New Build & Heritage)**
– **Restoration & Reproduction**
– **Modelling & Mould Making**
– **Teaching & Mentoring**
– **Hobbies:** Restoring and repairing musical instruments, along with a love for vintage motorbikes.
Philosophy
I believe in **keeping busy and staying mentally engaged**—a busy mind is a healthy mind. Restoring things, whether buildings or objects, brings me great satisfaction. There’s something special about taking something broken and making it whole again.
The key to success? **Perseverance and dedication.** I was taught at an early age: *“You only get out of life what you put into it.”* That’s the same advice I’ve passed on to every student and apprentice I’ve trained over the years.
