2023 Master Builder Awards, Heavenly Builder of the Year
National winner: Chris Shaw of T D G Contracts Ltd
Chris Shaw at T D G Contracts Ltd went above and beyond with helping one of his clients. They were in desperate need of extra space to help them look after their three-year-old nephew, who came into their care in very sad circumstances following the death of the client’s sister in August 2021.
As a toddler with complex needs including autism, they wanted to give him his own bedroom with ensuite facilities, and to make the garden safe and secure for the youngster to play in. Despite their budget falling short, the team reached out to the local construction community via social media and received offers from tradespeople including bricklayers, roofers, joiners, electricians and plumbers, all willing to give their time and skills for free. The clients commented that the trades working on site all spoke highly of Chris. 'The way he encouraged and motivated others to give despite this being a time of great financial pressure on
everyone was incredible to see. Our gratitude goes beyond words.'
The national judges chose Chris as the winner for this award because of the integral role he played in turning a tragic story into a truly uplifting one, describing him as a credit to the industry’. They were moved by his willingness to carry out work and go beyond the brief for free, setting aside financial gain to make a real difference to a family in need and mobilising his peers to do the same. They loved the compassion he showed and the leadership skills he demonstrated on site.
I just think it’s one of those stories that brings a tear to my eye, but reinforces my belief in human nature as being a good thing… I think Chris should be most proud of the fact that he’s just a good bloke.”
