JCB Operator Challenge 2026: Heat 2

After an incredible start, the second regional heat of the 2026 JCB UK Operator Challenge got underway in the South West of England on Friday 17th April. For their event, Holt JCB teamed up with The Construction Hub Academy, an accredited construction training provider based in Wales.

As well as the Operator Challenge, Holt JCB pulled out all the stops to hold a wider ‘Dig Day’ event, showcasing an extensive range of JCB machines available amongst their Demonstration Fleet including mini excavators, rotating telehandlers, Teletruks, electric articulated booms and electric access platforms.

On display were several machines including the 558-260R rotating telehandler and 6T-2 site dumper. As expected, interest in the machines was high, with visitors eager to get hands-on, digging and grading.

The event certainly drew some crowds, with 41 competitors taking part, as well as plenty of spectators who came along to soak up the atmosphere, with the crowd on tenterhooks watching competitors test their precision, nerve and patience.

It was another hotly contested event, with the top three going on to compete for the title of being crowned JCB's Excavator Operator of the Year 2026 in the final in July. Top of the leaderboard at the end of the two days was Ashley Matthews from RMG Groundworks with an impressive overall time of 01:30:00. Second was Jack Hammacott (01:42:00) and in third place was Morgan Hammacott from JH Group (01:52:00).

Well done to all the operators who took part and thank you to everyone who came to support!