A Wells-based stained glass apprentice has been shortlisted for one of the UK's top heritage craft awards.

Toby Britton-Watts, 26, who works at Holy Well Glass in Wells, is one of only three national finalists for the 2025 Heritage Crafts 'Trainee of the Year' Award — a title recognising exceptional commitment to traditional skills.

The awards, supported by The Royal Mint and Wentworth Woodhouse, shine a light on endangered crafts such as stained glass, blacksmithing and stonemasonry. Winners will be announced at a reception in South Yorkshire on Monday, 17 November.

Britton-Watts is studying a Level 4 Stained Glass Craftsperson Apprenticeship through the University of Wales Trinity Saint David in collaboration with the Institute of Conservation (ICON). He joined Holy Well Glass in 2023 after completing a BA in Fine Art and spending 18 months learning hands-on under stained glass artist Amanda Blair.

He has since worked on nationally important buildings including Windsor Castle, King's College Cambridge and Winchester Cathedral.

"It's a real honour to be shortlisted among such talented craftspeople," he said. "Working with historic stained glass allows me to connect with centuries of artistic and cultural heritage while developing practical conservation skills for the future."

Holy Well Glass is home to three ICON-accredited conservators and two apprentices. Its director Jack Clare ACR said: "We're delighted that Toby's dedication and craftsmanship have been recognised at a national level. His work exemplifies the passion and precision needed to ensure that traditional stained glass conservation continues to flourish."

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Dr Mark Cocks, Dean of the Wales Institute of Science and Art, said the nomination reflected the university's commitment to supporting traditional skills. "Toby's dedication, creativity and craftsmanship exemplify the excellence we strive for," he said.

The award is open to apprentices, trainees and students undertaking significant practical training as part of their development. Britton-Watts was nominated by his mentor and selected from thirteen UK-wide nominations.

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