Mechanic is in country's top three
A 20-year-old Barnstaple man has been named the third best young mechanic in the country after taking part in a BBC television programme.
Daniel Cudmore, who has worked at Parkside Vauxhall on Newport Road for the past three-and-a-half years, featured in the show which was broadcast on BBC3 on Monday as part of the Young Professional of the Year series.
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FINALIST: BBC3 Young mechanic of the year finalist Dan Cudmore at work at Parkside Vauxhall. Picture: Rob Tibbles 0911-131_01
Daniel was one of five outstanding young mechanics chosen from a pool of more than 3,000 from across the country to appear in the show.
He said: "Last year I finished second in the national Vauxhall young apprentice of the year contest and earlier this year I was nominated for the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) outstanding technical student award.
"Vauxhall nominated me for the BBC contest and although I knew I was in with a chance it was a big surprise to reach the finals."
On the show Daniel had to identify several faults on a vehicle and fit an immobiliser device which was then tested by a would-be burglar.
He said: "I'm very proud of how well I did — especially as I only have four years' experience. Being filmed and constantly scrutinised definitely added to the pressure.
"Being a mechanic is all I've ever wanted to do and to know I am the third best young mechanic in the country is fantastic."
Daniel's boss at Parkside, general manager Andy Witherington, said: "Daniel has had a fantastic year gaining bronze, silver and gold training awards.
"I like to think we spotted his potential from day one and since he has been here he has developed hugely as a person. We're all very proud of him but he'll have to do a lot to top his success next year."
Daniel's mother Judith, who works as a secretary in Barnstaple, added: "I'm so proud of him.
"For as long as I can remember Daniel has always been interested in cars and motors and just loves getting his hands dirty."
Despite his numerous accolades, Daniel said he won't be asking Parkside Vauxhall for a pay rise just yet.
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by cyril dennis, barnstaple
Wednesday, December 02 2009, 2:15PM
“Sorry Penny if I tarred all penpushers with the same brush,
I should have said
"some of the worthless penpushers" Best wishes, Cyril”
by Penny Pusher, A Desk again
Wednesday, December 02 2009, 1:43PM
“On 2/12 Cyril claimed "I wont stoop to your level and bad mouth you."
Pn 29/11 Cyril stated "...instead of the worthless penpushers..."
Seems like you were already at that level and badmouthing with the first post Cyril.
You still haven't told us who the "worthless penpushers that we normally see in the paper" are either, but I think I have a good idea now.”
by Mark, Braunton
Wednesday, December 02 2009, 10:42AM
“Good on ya Daniel
Just a shame it's the normal slang match in the comments - but well done Daniel”
by cyril dennis, barnstaple
Wednesday, December 02 2009, 10:20AM
“One day when your car breaks down you will soon see who is the better man.
I wont stoop to your level and bad mouth you.”
by Ivor Hairy, One
Tuesday, December 01 2009, 5:22PM
“Come Cyril stick up for your self you good for nothing worthless piece of poo. Pen pusher, I sit at a desk and push pens around on bits of paper. So what you are trying to say is that mechanics are better than your average pen pusher? Right?
Get a life!!”