Polish builder is just 'heavenly'

Janusz Jolkowicz is a Polish builder working around Abefeldy

A Polish man working in Highland Perthshire has been named the UK's Most Heavenly Builder.

Janusz Jolkowicz, 41, was given the award for his positive attitude, determination and craftsmanship.

He was nominated by satisfied customers after working in appalling weather and difficult conditions.

He previously picked up the Scottish Heavenly Builder title and has made headlines for singing in the Aberfeldy and District Gaelic Choir.

The awards are organised by the Federation of Master Builders.

Mr Jolkowicz was the only builder keen to take on the job planned by Lou and Bill Oppenheim - others were put off by the lack of access for materials and machinery at the remote hillside.

However, within half-an-hour of starting the project, the Pole had built a wooden chute to transport materials down the steep slope. He also hand-dug the foundations through rock and mud.

The team worked in the wind and rain to build this guesthouse

Mr Jolkowicz said: "They nominated me because we [his team] worked very hard, in very bad weather when we started this work, very windy and raining all the time. We were working under tarpaulin."

Mrs Oppenheim added: "We were so impressed by Janusz's cheerfulness, his dedication and his high professional standards.

"He never complained, and despite the incessant rain he just kept working. In fact his favourite phrase was 'no problem'.

"The standard of workmanship and attention to fine detail is amazing."

And Mr Jolkowicz has settled well in his new town.

"I was born in the Polish mountains - I'm a Polish Highlander," he added.

"It's the same view and then there's Loch Tay. The people, this view and this place is special - a very nice place, very quiet."