The inaugural Golden Hammer Awards will bring together joiners from across the North East for a live skills competition at Hartlepool College on 30 May 2026, with competitors set to construct a traditional hand-cut roof as part of the judging process.
Organised by Northern Counties Builders Federation (NCBF) in partnership with True North Construction and Hartlepool College, the event will see entrants assessed on technical accuracy, craftsmanship and precision, with a £5,000 first prize on offer for the winner.
The competition is supported by headline sponsor Jewson, in association with British Lead.
The task will require competitors to demonstrate accurate joint cutting with minimal gaps, alongside precise adherence to drawings covering dimensions and pitch.
Construction skills challenge highlights North East joinery talent
Northern Counties Builders Federation (NCBF) is a trade association representing construction companies and contractors across the North East of England.
The organisation focuses on supporting training, apprenticeships and workforce development within the regional construction sector.
Angela Carney, president of the Northern Counties Builders Federation, said: “The Golden Hammer Awards have been established to showcase the exceptional skills and craftsmanship we have across the region.
“The task of constructing a traditional hand-cut roof will really put competitors through their paces and highlight the level of precision and expertise required in modern joinery.
“Families are welcome to attend and support competitors on the day.
“With such a strong judging panel in place, we can ensure each entry is assessed with expert insight and fairness, while celebrating the vital contribution that skilled tradespeople make to our industry.”
Judging panel to assess precision, accuracy and craftsmanship
Judging will be carried out by a panel of construction professionals, including Steven Henderson, construction director at True North Construction, alongside carpentry and joinery specialists Graeme Fallowfield and Graeme Southward from Hartlepool College.
The winner will receive £5,000, with second place awarded a Makita DLX6100PX1 18v 6 Piece LXT Drill Grinder Kit and £500, and third place receiving £250 plus tools.
The awards come as the construction industry continues to face skills shortages, particularly across traditional trades such as joinery and carpentry, with initiatives like this aiming to support recruitment and highlight career pathways in the sector.
Steven Henderson, construction director at True North Construction, said: “The awards are about recognising the skilled tradespeople who are at the heart of construction. Joiners bring specialist knowledge and craftsmanship to projects, ensuring work is delivered to the highest standards.
“Being part of the judging panel is a great opportunity to see that talent first-hand and to celebrate the dedication and professionalism that joiners bring to the industry every day.”
