Award for Gloucester stonemason

Ronnie MacKenzie working on a canopy stone at Gloucester Cathedral

A stonemason at Gloucester Cathedral has won an award for his work.

Ronnie MacKenzie received the commendation at the Duke of Gloucester Awards in London on Tuesday, 20 October, 2009.

The Improver Mason award is open to qualified stonemasons who have worked for three to five years in a mason's yard in order to develop their craft.

He was assessed for his work on the restoration of the South Aisle at Gloucester Cathedral.

Ronnie said: "I'm very grateful to receive this award but I see it as an award for the team rather than the individual.

"Without the opportunities at the Cathedral Workshop I wouldn't have been able to develop my skills in this way."

The assessors commented: "Ronnie has shown remarkable improvement in his work since completing NVQ Level 3.

"This award, which recognises the continuing improvement of the skills of our young Masons, will encourage more newly qualified Masons to seek ways of enhancing their work."

The Worshipful Company of Masons introduced an Award in 2007 in honour of HRH the Duke of Gloucester who, through his architectural background, has had a keen interest in the construction industry, national heritage and the training of craftsmen in the industry.