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Ilkey butcher's apprentice named national best

As National Apprenticeship Week gears up, an Ilkley butcher apprentice, working under David Lishman, has been crowned Best Retail Meat Apprentice by the UK’s Meat Training Council.

Conor Chappell, 21, from Silsden, has worked at Lishman’s of Ilkley for two and a half years and recently completed his level two Certificate for Proficiency in Meat and Poultry Industry Skills at Leeds City College.

His training was supported and funded by David’s Ilkley business.

Conor was selected as the national prize winner based on strong feedback from his tutor and the quality of work submitted for levels one and two of his course.

Conor Chappell receives his award from the Master of the Worshipful Company of Butchers in London

Speaking about his butchery accolade, Conor said: “I still can’t quite believe my work has been recognised at this kind of level - it’s an incredible honour.

“My intention now is to move on to level three of my course, while continuing my full time job here at Lishman’s. David and the lads here have been really supportive throughout my course so I’d like to thank them for helping to make this happen.”

David Lishman added: “Conor’s proven himself to be a dedicated and talented young butcher and it’s been a pleasure to see his progression over the last couple of years.

“I’ve always been a firm believer in nurturing new talent - we’ve taken on many apprentices over the years - so I’m a big supporter of accreditation schemes, like this, which really bolster the experience butchers like Conor gain on the shop floor.”

Conor attended the annual prize giving reception and luncheon with his wife, Vanessa, at Butcher’s Hall in London on 25 February. His Best Retail Meat Apprentice award was be presented by The Master of the Worshipful Company of Butchers.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .