Autoglass technician David Lyth, from Birmingham has achieved third place in the international Best of Belron competition.

The parent company of Autoglass, Belron, holds the biannual global competition to find its best vehicle glass repair and replacement technician.

This year’s event was hosted in Lisbon from the 18 – 19 May, and saw 27 technicians compete for the title of ‘Best of Belron’.  After winning the qualifying heat to represent the UK in the Lisbon event, David put his skills to the test at the competition finale, finishing third overall, and higher than any other European competitor.

To compete, each national champion underwent a series of challenges and was scored for customer service, quality, safety, working methods, car care and also the speed with which they completed each job. David Lyth demonstrated exceptionally high standards of workmanship and excellent customer service skills.

Lyth (pictured left), said: “It was really enjoyable to meet so many international colleagues who share the same passion and commitment. It was also nerve-wracking at times too, but I had an amazing team of people behind me.”

Taxiarchis Konstantopoulos, managing director of Autoglass, added: “Our parent company established the event to foster and encourage the talents of our technicians and celebrate their successes – they are our everyday heroes. David’s achievements really set the standard.  We couldn’t be prouder of his performance at the competition."

The event brought together global industry leaders from the automotive, VGRR, technology, insurance, and fleet and lease sectors for a two-day conference. This year’s theme was ‘Profiting from Technology: industry developments you can benefit from’ and a number of high-profile speakers discussed how technology and innovation are changing the automotive and insurance industries.

Industry leaders also reflected on the impact of the digital era on cars, drivers and consumers, and how today’s businesses can best tap into the new digital age.