By James Bovington
A craft gardener who works at Kirkstall Abbey has been named Apprentice of the Year in the health and public service category of the North Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.
Chris Cole is a married father of an ‘absolutely adored young daughter’ and at 34 says that “getting the award shows there’s no maximum age to make a success of a new career path.
“Since turning 30 I’ve become a dad and a qualified horticulturalist having obtained a distinction in my level two ‘horticultural operative’ qualification. I’m grateful to my tutor Adele at Askham Bryan College for the nomination.”
Cole now lives in Yeadon but grew up in Horsforth. In his late teens Cole was diagnosed with Kerataconus, an eye condition which resulted in him needing corneal transplants for each eye before he turned 21.
“I ended up registered as partially sighted and disabled. The gift from my donors completely changed my life and I’ll always be an ambassador for organ donation. Working outdoors managing green spaces brings mental health benefits.
“I’d worked in the demanding and fast-paced music industry which caused my mental health to deteriorate and then with lockdown I saw that my gardening hobby presented an opportunity to change career. I began my horticulture apprenticeship at 31 and it was the best career decision I ever took. turned out to be the best thing I have ever done.
“The anxieties I had previously have disappeared thanks to the calming and enjoyable work I do in all seasons and especially because I’m helping take care of such a valuable setting as Kirkstall Abbey whose significance for this city can’t be overstated.”
A panel of judges from companies and local authorities scored candidates for the awards and this included points assigned for difficulties overcome.
“It was a challenge,” concluded Cole. “My distinction recognises the effort made despite circumstances including loss of loved ones, a workplace accident and planned knee surgery which put me out of action.
“Of course while I’m delighted to have got this recognition it’s becoming a dad to our daughter and hopefully being a role model for her that makes me most proud.”
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