James Walkling (pictured), 31, has worked at Fraikin’s Harrow branch for two years as a maintenance technician and took part in the final, in Strasbourg, after winning the UK qualifier.
Open to all technicians across the Fraikin Group, the competition is split into four categories: body specialist, crane, fridge specialist and mechanic.
In the mechanic category, Walkling was up against six technicians from branches in Belgium, France, Luxembourg and Spain. The challenge included replacing the front brake disc and brake pads on one side of an IVECO Daily van, with the judges watching for correct procedures and use of appropriate personal protective equipment.
He was jointly awarded the top spot alongside Raphael Masiuk from Luxembourg. The prize includes a driver’s day at the Circuit du Laquais in France next month.
All 74 Fraikin vehicle maintenance technicians in the UK hold, at minimum, a level two irtec licence.
Alongside his irtec accreditation, Walkling has 12 years’ experience in the industry, holds Class IV and VII MOT Vehicle Examiner status, and is also working towards his HGV licence.