The youngster spent his school holidays learning how to put a JCB digger through its paces and passed his Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) exam with flying colours.
He took the industry recognised proficiency test on the world’s most famous digger – a JCB Backhoe Loader – at Flynne Plant Training Centre (http://www.flynneplanttraining.com/) in Rochford, Essex, where he had to demonstrate a strong grasp of both the theory and practical aspects of operating the machinery. This included safely controlling and operating the JCB backhoe loader, digging and loading with precision, lifting and moving loads using the correct techniques and confidently handling attachments and forks fitted to the machine.
JCB digger driving is in young Finlay’s blood as grandad Pat Gallagher founded the family-owned aggregates, groundworks, civil engineering and property development company Gallagher Group more than 50 years ago with a single JCB 3C MK 2 Backhoe Loader.
Fast forward half a century and the company has a fleet of more than 300 machines and employs more than 500 people. Finlay’s dad Stephen is a Director and hopes Finlay will one day follow in the family footsteps and join the business after school.
Finlay said: “I’ve loved diggers since I was really little – probably around three or four. My grandad Dave used to drive me around in his dozer, while he did the pedals and I sat on his lap. Then my grandad Pat got me interested in excavators and Backhoe Loaders, which started my love of JCBs.
“I definitely see my future in the construction industry. My grandad Pat started the Gallagher Group, and it would mean a lot to me to play a part in helping the business continue to grow. This qualification is a great first step, and I’m keen to build on it by learning to operate more types of plant machinery.
“I really enjoyed the training. I liked learning how to use the JCB 3CX Plus Backhoe Loader and understanding what was needed to pass the course.”
Flynne Plant Training trainer, Derek Mansfield said: “Finlay was one of the most enthusiastic and capable young candidates we’ve had. His control of the machine and understanding of how it operates was far beyond what you’d expect at his age. He picked things up incredibly quickly and showed real natural ability. He’s now officially the youngest person in the UK to pass this qualification, which is a fantastic achievement. The Gallagher family should be very proud. We’d welcome Finlay back any time to train on more machines, and I genuinely look forward to seeing where his skills take him next.”