AN OTLEY man was among a trio who have returned from South America covered with glory after taking part in the WorldSkills finals in Brazil.

Dominic Trees, 20, together with Patrick Devanney, 20 of Keighley, and Chris Renwick, 25 of Wrose, were representing the UK in the high-pressure international competition.

The contest for young apprentices takes place every two years and attracts entrants from all over the world.

The threesome, who all work for Carnaud Metal Box Engineering in Shipley, came fifth in their group and all won medallions of excellence, which are presented to those who attain more than 500 points in the competition, demonstrating world class standards in their chosen skill.

They attended a reception on their return where Bradford Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Abid Hussain, congratulated the trio.

Mr Renwick said: “WorldSkills provides us with the platform to showcase our talent on a global stage against the very best young engineers.

“With the support from the team at CMB Engineering, we were able to triumph in Brazil and bring back medals to Bradford."

The CMB team had been selected to represent the UK as part of the Manufacturing Team Challenge in what is billed as world’s largest professional education competition.

They were tasked with creating a remote control forklift capable of transporting loads of 50kg, with firm instructions it had to be both sustainable and developed to strict specifications.

Cllr Hussain said: “The achievements of these three lads are to be commended, so I was delighted to be invited to this celebration event.

"They should be very proud of what they have accomplished, and I wish them all the very best for the future. Bradford should be very proud of them to have done such skilful work, and it clearly shows the importance of education.”

CMB has been at its Dockfield Road site for 51 years, and specialises in designing and making metal forming and finishing machinery for the production of food, drink and aerosol cans.

And it has a strong international market, including exporting equipment to Brazil.

Andrew Truelove, general manager at CMB Engineering, said of the young team: “They have done the company and the city of Bradford proud.

“We are extremely proud of the boys’ efforts in what is a highly pressurised environment.

“We have always had a strong belief in reinvesting in the future of our industry, and it is moments like this that act as a fantastic reminder that by taking time to nurture young talent, we can reap the rewards and continue to set the benchmark, while pushing innovation well into the future.”