Builder scoops 'heavenly' award

David Stowell was crowned Britain's most Heavenly Builder

A builder who "went the extra 10 miles" to help a disabled customer has been named Britain's most "heavenly".

Dave Stowell, from Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, was awarded the title at the Master Builder of the Year ceremony for his "outstanding" customer service.

He was chosen after being nominated by a Haverfordwest pensioner.

David Edwards, 64, said that during work to make his home wheelchair-friendly, his builder showed him "wonderful care and kindness."

Mr Stowell had been employed to extend the kitchen and bedroom, as well as adding a wet room to the home of Mr Edwards.

Dave didn't go the extra mile - he went the extra ten miles David Edwards, customer

But during the work, Mr Stowell made sure customer satisfaction was a top priority.

"Have you ever heard of a builder bringing his client tea in bed or popping in to check he's okay when his full-time carer is on holiday?" said Mr Edwards.

"Dave didn't go the extra mile - he went the extra 10 miles.

"I am so grateful to him for not only doing an excellent project, but also for going far beyond the call of duty in ensuring that my quality of life was greatly improved.

"He thoroughly deserves to be called a heavenly builder," he added.

Mr Stowell, who has won a weekend away with his wife Clare, said: "I didn't think I had a cat in hell's chance of winning it.

"I'm flabbergasted - I'm just an ordinary builder, just a Joe Bloggs."

Since working for Mr Edwards, the pair have struck up a friendship.

"He wasn't well at all and I would make him a cup of tea and keep the dust to minimum," he said.

"I've still got a key to his door in my work jeans and phone him up and pop over to see him," he added.

The awards are organised by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Richard Diment, the federation's director general, said: "Our congratulations go to Dave Stowell for this well-deserved award, but equally our thanks go to David Edwards, who appreciated his excellent customer service."