Dennis Jones (left in the picture above), a mason with Sussex-based stone and conservation specialists CWO (Cathedral Works Organisation) has become the first-ever recipient of the Project Craftsman of the Year Award, a new category in the Duke of Gloucester Awards run by the Worshipful Company of Masons and presented by His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester himself (on the right in the picture) in Mercers’ Hall, London, last month (October).

The Award recognises a stonemason with a minimum of five years’ post-qualification experience who has shown high standards in a portfolio of projects. Dennis’ Award included nomination as a Yeoman Mason with the Worshipful Company and a cheque for £500 to be used to help him advance his career in stonemasonry. The Project Craftsman of the Year Award is supported by Stone Federation Great Britain.